Causes of Pongpet Bridge Collapse in Pangandaran Revealed: Technical Issues and Overcrowding Identified
The mystery surrounding the collapse of the Pongpet Suspension Bridge in Pangandaran Regency, West Java, has begun to unfold. An investigation by the Indonesian Army (TNI AD) has uncovered several technical issues within the bridge’s structural system.
In addition to technical problems, approximately 50 people were on the bridge simultaneously when the incident occurred. Analysis indicates that this condition was one of the factors affecting the structural performance.
“The investigation results found a number of technical conditions in the bridge system that collectively affected structural performance, including loading conditions that exceeded the bridge’s usage capacity,” stated the Head of the Indonesian Army’s Public Relations, Brigadier General TNI Donny Pramono, as reported on Saturday, 5 September 2026.
The investigation team identified several technical issues within the bridge components. These include a broken block anchor hook, the configuration and position of the block anchor relative to the pylon roller system, and the turnbuckle configuration of the lower sling.
“Furthermore, there were differences in elevation on the pylon. Additionally, at the time of the incident, the bridge was receiving simultaneous loads from approximately 50 people, which, based on the analysis, was one of the factors affecting structural performance,” he added.
These findings are significant as the structure was a pioneer bridge built to provide community access, particularly in areas where geographical conditions make the construction of concrete bridges difficult.
The Indonesian Army explained that pioneer bridges have specific capacities and capabilities. Therefore, the amount of weight placed on the bridge is a critical aspect of its usage.
“Pioneer bridges have specific limits of capability or capacity. Consequently, the aspect of loading is a very important factor to consider during use. Provisions regarding the maximum number of people allowed on the bridge had also been established,” he said.
Following the incident, the Indonesian Army has increased security measures for the sling systems on other existing pioneer bridges. The strength of the slings is being increased by approximately 20 to 30 per cent.
Evaluations will also be conducted on various technical aspects of other pioneer bridges.
“We do not wish to blame anyone. This incident serves as an important lesson for us to ensure that all technical aspects and usage regulations are fully understood and strictly followed,” he concluded.