Batang SEZ to build rail-linked dry port with KAI, Pelindo

The Batang Industropolis Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Central Java will develop a rail-based dry port in partnership with state railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) and port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo), aiming to strengthen logistics connectivity and attract investment.

The project will be built on about 30 hectares and is expected to have an initial capacity of 600,000-650,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) per year, with potential to expand to 1 million TEUs, Batang SEZ President Director Ngurah Wirawan said.

The facility is designed to serve as an import-export gateway for industrial tenants and a regional logistics consolidation hub.

Groundbreaking is targeted for June 2026, officials said.

Read also: Pelindo operates multipurpose terminal at Pangkalbalam Port

KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin said rail-based connectivity would improve efficiency in freight distribution by linking industrial estates directly to the railway network.

Pelindo President Director Achmad Muchtasyar said the dry port would extend port services closer to industrial areas, helping accelerate cargo flows and improve connectivity with global shipping networks.

The project involves multiple entities, including regional firms PT Sarana Pembangunan Jawa Tengah and Perumda Aneka Usaha Kabupaten Batang.

Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs said the project would be developed in phases, starting with feasibility studies this year, followed by infrastructure development and system integration in 2027-2028.

The ministry said stronger rail and port integration is key to lowering logistics costs and boosting the country’s competitiveness.

Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak