Bandung Mayor Reprimands Three Departments Over Cable Excavation Project That Caused Accidents

BANDUNG — Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has issued a stern reprimand to three municipal department heads regarding a cable excavation project that is suspected of causing numerous motorcycle and truck driver accidents in Bandung. He has given an ultimatum for the cable excavation work to be completed by 5 March 2026.

“Regarding the excavation holes, I have already issued a strong reprimand to PT BII as a municipal enterprise, and also to DSABM. The leading sector is Diskominfo,” he said at Bandung City Police Headquarters on Monday (2 March 2026).

He has ensured that the cable excavation project site will be cleared up by 5 March. Additionally, his office is coordinating with West Java Provincial Government as certain cable excavation project points fall under their jurisdiction.

“I ensure that by 5 March all work in Bandung City must be completed,” he said.

Farhan stated that if cable excavation holes are left unattended, they will create various problems. He said he would coordinate with regional leaders’ communication forums to address passive telecommunications infrastructure.

“It will be completed by 5 March at the latest, so by 6 March everything will be finished,” he said.

He stated that his office will also handle victims who have suffered accidents due to cable excavation. Additionally, the city will cover medical treatment costs.

“Victims who report incidents will be treated very seriously. Victims requiring hospitalisation will be covered if treated at the city general hospital,” he said.

Regarding damaged vehicles, he acknowledged that further calculation is needed, as insurance should cover these costs.

Earlier, a motorcyclist and a truck driver had accidents caused by hitting cable excavation holes in Bandung City. Additionally, after excavation, the holes were left unattended without temporary covering.