17 Bridges Inaugurated, South Sumatra Governor Says Access is Now Closer
The inauguration was marked by the signing of a commemorative plaque at the Air Temelat Bridge in Ciptadadi Village, Sukakarya Subdistrict, Musi Rawas Regency.
Herman Deru stated that the construction of these bridges is part of the South Sumatra Provincial Government’s efforts to shorten access between regions while accelerating economic growth for the community.
“Alhamdulillah, in recent weeks I have visited Musi Rawas several times. Earlier, the Head of Public Works explained that from PALI to Simpang Semambang in Musi Rawas, there are 33 bridges. Insyaallah, two more will be built. That means 31 bridges have now been constructed, and this will continue,” said Herman Deru in a written statement on Saturday (9/5/2026).
He made these remarks while signing the plaque at the Air Temelat Bridge in Ciptadadi Village, Sukakarya Subdistrict, Musi Rawas Regency, on Friday (8/5).
He explained that the infrastructure development stems from the long history of Musi Rawas, Lubuklinggau, and Muratara regions, which previously had very long travel distances to Palembang, reaching up to 11 hours.
“In the past, there were often discussions about splitting South Sumatra due to the excessive distances. Then, ideas emerged on how to bring these regions closer. One of them was building roads and bridges, which had long been desired by previous leaders,” he said.
Herman Deru revealed that the bridge constructions were realised after his administration convinced the central government, including the Ministry of Forestry, and utilised budget refocusing policies during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Now we are already feeling the benefits, although not yet perfect because there are still two more bridges to be built in stages. Now access is closer. I remember when the first one was inaugurated, many people were grateful, even slaughtering goats and such,” he stated.
According to Herman Deru, infrastructure development must provide tangible benefits to the community, particularly in supporting public services and inter-regional connectivity in South Sumatra.
“Hopefully what we have done will benefit the people of South Sumatra, and we can always provide the best services and development for the region,” he added.
Meanwhile, Ratna Machmud expressed appreciation to Governor Herman Deru and Deputy Governor Cik Ujang for their significant attention to infrastructure development in Musi Rawas Regency.
“On behalf of the Musi Rawas Regency Government, we extend our thanks and appreciation to Governor Herman Deru and Deputy Governor Cik Ujang. This development is a manifestation of the South Sumatra Provincial Government’s commitment,” she said.
She admitted to being moved upon hearing about the construction of 33 bridges along the PALI-Musi Rawas route, especially since two more bridges will be built this year.
“This means the Governor is paying great attention to Musi Rawas Regency. Many developments have been carried out, such as hospitals and other infrastructure,” she stated.
According to Ratna Machmud, the bridge constructions will facilitate community mobility, both for access to education and healthcare, as well as encouraging local economic growth.
“I entrust a message to the community to maintain these built bridges well so they can be used for a long time. May these bridges bring blessings and progress to Musi Rawas,” she concluded.
The 17 bridges inaugurated by Herman Deru are spread across seven regencies, including:
East OKU Regency: Sukaraja Bridge, Air Tuha Bridge, Air Cempaka Bridge, and Bantan Pelita Bridge.
Ogan Ilir Regency: Air Rasau Bentang Bridge, STA 01+600 Tanah Abang Bridge, and STA 03+100 Tanah Abang Bridge.
OKI-Banyuasin Regency: Air Sugihan Bridge.
OKU Regency: Air Serami Bridge and Air Serami Kecil Bridge.
Muara Enim Regency: Lembak Kecil V Bridge.
PALI Regency: Air Baung Bridge and Air Seloyan Bridge.
Musi Rawas Regency: Air Tambangan Bridge, Air Benakat Bridge, Air Siamang Bridge, and Air Temelat Bridge.