“This progress is the result of collaboration between the Ministry of Public Works, the Iskandar Muda Military Regional Command of the Indonesian Army, and state construction company PT Adhi Karya,” said Rakhman Taufik, Director of Bridge Construction at the ministry.
Speaking in Bireuen District, Aceh, on Saturday, he noted that the emergency bridge installation in Kutablang Sub-district began on December 9 and was inaugurated with a traditional Acehnese procession after passing a load capacity test.
"As an emergency panel bridge, this structure has a maximum load capacity of only 30 tonnes," he added.
In addition to load restrictions, there are also limits on vehicle height, with a vertical clearance of around four meters, particularly as the bridge is positioned above the existing permanent bridge.
"We therefore urge travelers not to congregate or stop on the emergency panel bridge," he told the public.
The official further noted that his office is working closely with the Ministry of Transportation and the traffic police to install signs and warnings aimed at ensuring traffic safety.
He added that although the Bailey bridge has restored land access between Banda Aceh and Medan, the government remains committed to developing a permanent structure to ensure long-term connectivity, with the design process already underway.
"We will conduct soil research, craft detailed engineering designs, and immediately proceed with construction," Rakhman said.
Moreover, he highlighted ongoing efforts to repair bridges along Aceh’s central land route to support smooth interregional mobility.
“There are eight damaged bridges between Takengon (Central Aceh) and Bireuen, six of which are being handled with heavy equipment,” he said, adding that the Indonesian government has opened alternative routes to compensate for the remaining two.
Bireuen District Head Mukhlis Takabeya expressed appreciation to the central government and the military for the swift installation of the Bailey bridge, which he expects will facilitate the movement of people and goods to and from Medan amid the emergency situation
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Translator: Rahmat F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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