Medan Train Makes Emergency Stop After Pedestrian Collision

PT KAI Sumut clarified the reason behind a train's sudden stop on a level crossing in Medan. Residents of Medan were reportedly concerned after a train unexpectedly stopped at a level crossing near the PDAM Tirtadani Sumut office on Jalan Sisingamangaraja, Medan, on Monday evening, September 21, 2026. The event, occurring around 7:05 PM WIB, drew the attention of passersby, with some suspecting a serious incident. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) Regional Division I North Sumatra provided clarification to address the circulating information. Anwar Yuli Prastyo, Public Relations Manager of PT KAI Divre I Sumut, explained that the train involved was the KA Putri Deli, which departed from Medan Station at 7:05 PM WIB, heading towards Tanjungbalai Station. Anwar asserted that the KA Putri Deli, operating on the Medan-Tanjungbalai route, did not derail or experience any other major malfunction, contrary to some public fears. The train halted as part of safety procedures after an incident involving a pedestrian who was on the rail tracks. According to the report from the KA Putri Deli's driver, the incident occurred shortly after the train left Medan Station, specifically at kilometer 01+3/4, in the section between Medan Station and Bandar Kalipah Station, around 7:09 PM WIB. The driver reported that the pedestrian was walking in the middle of the tracks, facing away from the approaching train. The driver had sounded the locomotive's horn multiple times as a warning and attempted to brake, but the distance was too short to avoid the incident. Following the incident, the driver immediately stopped the train to inspect the train set and ensure the track was safe before proceeding. "After the locomotive and the train set were confirmed to be safe, the train resumed its journey from the incident location at 7:13 PM. Therefore, the train's stop, as seen in videos, lasted only 4 minutes while the driver conducted an inspection of the train set, not due to derailment," Anwar explained. KAI once again reminded the public not to engage in any activities along the railway tracks. This prohibition is part of efforts to ensure the safety of train operations and the public. These regulations are also stipulated in Article 181 of Law Number 23 of 2007 concerning Railways, which states that the operational area of railway lines must be sterile from public activities. PT KAI Divre I Sumut urged the public to enhance their awareness and concern for safety, both for themselves and for public transportation. "KAI urges the public to always prioritize safety and obey the rules by not being present, crossing, or engaging in activities on railway tracks. The safety of train journeys and the public is paramount; let us jointly maintain it through discipline by not engaging in activities along the railway lines," Anwar concluded. Source: Liputan6