Indonesia strives to ensure smooth operation of LRT
Indonesia is investigating a series of malfunctions that have plagued its first light rapid transit (LRT) system just days ahead of the opening ceremony of the Asian Games (ASIAD), the country’s transport ministry said on Aug 13.
Workers finalise construction of a light rail transit station in Palembang, South Sumatra, on June 28, 2018. (Source: AFP)
Jakarta (VNA) - Indonesiais investigating a series of malfunctions that have plagued its first lightrapid transit (LRT) system just days ahead of the opening ceremony of the AsianGames (ASIAD), the country’s transport ministry said on Aug 13.
The LRT in Palembang city, which isco-hosting the Games with Jakarta, needs to be operating smoothly, as thousandsof athletes, officials and visitors arrive this week for the start of the continent'sbiggest multi-sport event.
Indonesia has set aside worries aboutterrorism and street crime, saying it is ready to organise the Games from August18 to September 2.
But officials on August 13 were forced toacknowledge a series of "shortcomings" with the LRT, seen as the keyto avoiding traffic snarls in Palembang on Sumatra island.
A short circuit knocked out power to aportion of the transit system on August 12, halting trains and forcingpassengers to disembark between two stations.
Just days earlier, passengers had toendure long delays due to signals interference, which caused the temporarysuspension of services, local media reported.
The government will immediately evaluatethe whole operation of the South Sumatra LRT, aiming to seek for a solutionthat will improve the overall operation of the LRT, the transport ministrysaid.
Jakarta and Palembang will host about11,000 athletes and 5,000 officials from 45 Asian countries and territories forthe Games.
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Workers finalise construction of a light rail transit station in Palembang, South Sumatra, on June 28, 2018. (Source: AFP) 
