President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo is set to inaugurate the initial construction stage of the Trans Sulawesi railway connecting Makassar and Pare-Pare in mid-October
resident Joko "Jokowi" Widodo is set to inaugurate the initial construction stage of the Trans Sulawesi railway connecting Makassar and Pare-Pare in mid-October.
According to the Transportation Ministry's director general for railways Hermanto Dwiatmoko, the ministry is currently making final preparations for the new railway including land acquisitions and land leveling along the tracks.
Hermanto added that the project will use around 10 percent imported materials and is scheduled to open in 2019, providing a modern, high-speed rail service.
"We will need around Rp 11 trillion [US$796 million] to finish the [project]," said Hermanto on Wednesday as quoted by tempo.co.
To further strengthen local involvement and understanding, the government is cooperating with six higher education institutions in the region to carry out technical surveys, discuss design and develop railways education. The institutions involved are: Hasanuddin University, Haluoleo University, Tadulako University, Sam Ratulangi University, Gorontalo State University and West Sulawesi University.
"Developing the railway is more than just the construction itself. Human resources are also important," said Hermanto. He added that the railways education will include a dedicated railways major as yet unavailable, introducing students to technology, design and planning as specifically related to railways.
Hasanuddin University's deputy rector IV Prof. Dr. Budu has welcomed the government's move to collaborate with higher education institutions to develop the railway industry in Sulawesi.
"We are totally ready to help out, including by developing railways education at our university," said Budu. (kes)(+++)
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