TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Jakarta-Semarang direct train service will be made available during this Christmas and New Year holiday period, state railway operator PT KAI has confirmed.

"We plan to operate (the service) from December 19, 2024, to January 5, 2025," the company's president director, Didiek Hartantyo, disclosed here on Tuesday.

The transit-free train service has undergone trials on the Jakarta-Semarang and Semarang-Jakarta routes, he said, adding that evaluations of the trial have taken place.

The direct train will shorten the journey between Jakarta and Semarang to 5.5 hours, he informed.

Hartantyo said that another evaluation will take place after the end of the year-end service, and his side may consider making the service permanent if public response is positive.

He assured that the fare for the direct train will be affordable and competitive.

The company will also organize a public competition to name the service, he added.

While taking the pilot direct train service from Jakarta's Gambir Station to Semarang Tawang Station on Monday, Transportation Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said that transit-free trains are an alternative transport mode to provide a new experience to passengers during the holiday period.

According to the minister, their primary goal is to enable travelers to appreciate the ease and comfort of seamless, non-stop train services.

In line with Purwagandhi, State-Owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir touted the direct train as a breakthrough in improving services to the public.

The train's departure time of 11 p.m. local time is a popular choice, especially as it provides flexibility for those looking to travel long distances at a convenient time.

"Moreover, the stations continue to be improved. There are showers and lockers, more food facilities, pharmacies, and other things. It is extraordinary. Hence, hopefully, we can provide the best for the public," he added. 

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