Solo (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) has developed an eco-friendly or eco-crossing bridge in Solo, Central Java.

"This bridge uses solar cells for lighting and storing rainwater to water plants in the area," said Head of the Ministry's Research and Development Center for Roads and Bridges Deded Permadi Sjamsudin on the sidelines of the bridge inauguration on Jalan Kolonel Sutarto, Jebres, Surakarta, on Friday.

Stating that the eco-crossing bridge uses a sustainable concept, he said the land above could also be used as a place for social interaction.

"It can be used as a place to eat. Later, we will also install elevators for people with disabilities, but we have not installed them yet," he said.

He said the bridge was the first innovation of the ministry.

Especially in Solo, such a bridge was also developed in Manahan overpass and Mojo Bridge, he said, adding that both are examples of ministry's center that can be applied in several other cities.

On the same occasion, Surakarta Mayor FX Hadi Rudyatmo said that in the future, the eco-crossing bridge could be an alternative stop for young people in Solo.

"It can develop the economy, and accommodate four street vendors," he said.

In the future, he said, the Surakarta City Government will also implement similar innovations in Kleco, Laweyan, precisely at the entrance of the Solo border from the west.

Translator: Eliswan Azly
Editor: Bambang Purwanto
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