PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has intervened following the circulation of a viral video depicting two children engaging in dangerous activity on a railway line in Sidoarjo, East Java. The footage, which sparked widespread public concern, shows the minors standing in close proximity to a moving train.
The incident occurred at kilometre 31 ½ on the Tulangan–Sidoarjo route, specifically near the JPL 09 level crossing in Durungbedug Village, Candi District.
In the video, one child is seen standing in the centre of the tracks as the train approaches, making gestures that appear to signal the locomotive to stop. The child moved to the side of the tracks only moments before the train passed his position.
The uploader of the footage noted that the event took place on Friday, 26 December 2025, at approximately 17:06. They reported that the CL Jenggala train narrowly avoided a collision with the individual involved. Railway authorities later confirmed the timing and location of the event, identifying the vehicle as the Jenggala Commuter Line.
Official Response from KAI Operational Area 8
Mahendro Trang Bawono, the Public Relations Manager for KAI Operational Area 8 Surabaya, confirmed the authenticity of the video. He stated that the incident occurred at 17:20 WIB and emphasised the gravity of the situation regarding railway protocols.
“This incident is of serious concern to KAI because it directly relates to the safety of train travel and the safety of the public, especially children living near the tracks,” Mr Bawono stated during a briefing on Tuesday, 6 January 2026 to Kompas.com.
He noted that the actions of the minors posed a significant risk to both the operation of the commuter service and their own lives.
Authorities reiterated that railway tracks are strictly prohibited areas for the public. Under national safety regulations, any unauthorised activity on the tracks is considered a violation of transport safety laws.
KAI has used this incident to remind the community that the momentum of a train makes it impossible for a driver to stop instantly, meaning any obstruction on the line can lead to fatal consequences.
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Community Education and Preventive Measures
Following the identification of the location and the individuals involved, PT KAI officials visited the child’s home on 31 December 2025. The visit was conducted in coordination with local community leaders to address the matter directly with the family.
Mr Bawono explained that the railway operator chose a persuasive and humane approach to the situation, focusing on preventive education rather than immediate legal sanctions.
“We are grateful that the incident resulted in no casualties,” Mr Bawono explained. “KAI is following up on this incident with a humane approach, focusing on educating the family and the surrounding community about the dangers of being on railway tracks.”
The delegation provided the family with information regarding the technical dangers of the railway environment.
KAI Operational Area 8 Surabaya has since collaborated with local authorities to strengthen safety awareness campaigns in residential areas adjacent to the tracks.
Officials emphasised that these zones are not intended for recreational use and that parents must exercise strict supervision over their children to prevent a recurrence of such life-threatening behaviour.
Cover: Photo by Chandra Satriyan_Pexels
