Local train set to boost tourism

SEMARANG. State-run railway PT KAI Operational Zone IV on Friday launched the Pekalongan Express train serving Semarang and Pekalongan at the Tawang Station in Semarang.

The air conditioned economy-class train needs 1.5 hours to ply the Semarang Tawang-Semarang Poncol-Weleri-Plabuan-Pekalongan route.

Operational Zone IV chief spokesman Suprapto said in Semarang on Friday that the local train was aimed at promoting tourism in Central Java. According to him, the passenger load from Pekalongan to Semarang has been high.

Suprapto also said the Pekalongan Express train would help boost tourism at Plabuan Beach in Batang regency, which is famous for its pristine beauty.

“We are positive that the presence of the train will create new jobs in the tourism sector there, especially ahead of the Idul Fitri holidays, when it could serve as an alternative means of transportation for home-bound passengers, ” said Suprapto.