"The Silaturahim Tunnel, which is located on the east side of the mosque, has elevators at both entrances," president director of state-owned construction firm Waskita Karya, Muhammad Hanugroho, informed in a statement released by the company here on Friday.
Hanugroho said that the elevators can help the elderly and people with disabilities cross the tunnel.
The tunnel, whose construction took approximately 10 months, has a length of 28.3 meters, a width of 4.1 meters, and a height of 3 meters.
The Silaturahim Tunnel was built as a cross passage between the Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral for visitors and worshippers.
"This is in accordance with the President's Asta Cita (missions), which is to strengthen the harmony of life with the environment, nature, and culture, as well as increase tolerance between religious communities to achieve a just and prosperous society," Hanugroho said.
The construction of the Silaturahim Tunnel was carried out after a major renovation of the Istiqlal Mosque, which started in 2021.
Hanugroho revealed that it took about two years to renovate Istiqlal Mosque. Several sections were revitalized, including the lighting system, and the renovation was based on green building innovation.
"We are committed to maintaining the historical and cultural values that have existed in the Istiqlal Mosque building as a whole," he said.
Earlier in September 2024, Pope Francis visited the Silaturahim Tunnel during his visit to Istiqlal Mosque. The Pope described the tunnel as a symbol of strengthening brotherhood.
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Translator: Lia S, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2024
