Garuda Suspension Bridge Facilitates Access for Residents of Serang Baru and Setu, Bekasi
Bekasi Regency—Elements of the Bekasi Regency Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda) in West Java attended the virtual inauguration of the Garuda Suspension Bridge by President Prabowo Subianto, constructed to facilitate access for residents of Serang Baru and Setu subdistricts.
The bridge forms part of a nationwide initiative to construct 200 Garuda Bridges across Indonesia, spearheaded by the President through the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the Indonesian Armed Forces’ Land Component to open access and improve regional connectivity, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure.
President Prabowo Subianto emphasised via virtual address that the construction of hundreds of bridges in a relatively short timeframe demonstrates the government and military’s commitment to providing solutions for communities in need of connecting infrastructure.
“The inauguration of hundreds of bridges is evidence of the dedication of military personnel and all field officers in assisting communities requiring connecting access. Though these bridges may appear simple, they are strategically vital for communities in regions that need them,” the President stated during the virtual broadcast on Monday.
He noted that the construction of numerous Garuda Suspension Bridges across various regions also represents state presence amongst communities, even in the most remote areas.
“The government must extend its presence to villages and remote areas so that people do not face difficulties solely due to access limitations,” he said.
Acting Bekasi Regent Asep Surya Atmaja commended the military for its infrastructure development support, which delivers direct benefits to the community, particularly in facilitating inter-regional access across Bekasi Regency.
“We express our gratitude to the military for constructing this Garuda Suspension Bridge. The bridge connects Serang Baru Subdistrict with Setu Subdistrict, facilitating population mobility whilst supporting social and economic activities for residents in both areas,” he stated.
He expressed hope that the bridge would be optimally utilised by the community and maintained collaboratively so that its benefits could be sustained long-term.
“Going forward, we anticipate that residents, working alongside local government, will maintain and care for this facility properly so that the bridge can be sustainably utilised by residents in both subdistricts,” he said.