I know I’ve been jumping from one topic to another lately, but allow me to stay in Jakarta just a little longer. After writing about the EMU ex-Tokyu 8500 series on November 14th, I couldn’t help introducing another “endangered species” that continues to fascinate railfans. As always, my heartfelt thanks go to Faris Fadhli for sharing his wonderful photos.
Take a look at the top picture. This is set 05-110 (hereafter 05-110F) of the ex-Tokyo Metro 05 series, now running quietly in Indonesia. The 05 series made its debut on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line back in 1988. A total of 240 cars were produced by Kinki Sharyo, Nippon Sharyo, and several other manufacturers. Over the years, 130 of them retired from the Tozai Line, 12 cars found a new role on the Kita-Ayase branch line after modification, and 80 cars crossed the sea to Indonesia to begin their second life. According to Faris, only two sets—05-108F and 05-110F—are still bravely holding on.
I still remember the excitement as if it were yesterday. When the ex-Tokyo Metro 05 series arrived in Indonesia in 2010, I visited the Port of Tanjung Priok with several passionate Indonesian railfans. Together we watched the freshly arrived 05 series being unloaded, feeling as though we were welcoming an old friend to its new home (see the photo below).
Just like the ex-Tokyu 8500 series, the 05 series is now approaching the final chapter of its long journey. Even so, two sets continue to run firmly on Indonesian soil. I’m deeply grateful to the local railway engineers who have supported these trains for so many years, and I sincerely hope the 05 series will keep running for as long as possible.
