Sun, 12 Dec 2004

Crossing over to the other side

It's a simple bridge made from bamboo, very similar to those found around the country, yet it plays a mighty role in connecting the residents of two villages.

Villagers of Gunung Puyuh and Soka in Bantul, Yogyakarta, cross the bridge -- either walking, riding bicycles or on motorcycles -- on their way to work or simply to meet their neighbors on the other side.

In the rainy season, the bridge is sometimes washed away by the strong current of the Opak River, leaving the villagers to once again work together for their own collective good.

The bridge is then rebuilt by villages every dry season from the collected fees of Rp 500 for each person who crosses it. -- Text and photos by P.J. Leo