Governor urges Nias residents to oversee Mo'awo River Bridge construction

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has urged the people of Nias to oversee the construction of the Mo’awo River Bridge in Gunungsitoli to ensure it proceeds smoothly and benefits the public interest this year. “I know the condition is already alarming, which is why we will begin work this year. I ask for everyone’s support so that this runs smoothly,” said Bobby after inspecting the Mo’awo River Bridge on Jalan Yos Sudarso, Gunungsitoli, Nias Islands, North Sumatra, on Thursday. The governor also stated that he had held discussions with a number of Nias residents regarding the bridge’s construction and the various needs of local fishermen. At the site, Bobby witnessed firsthand the severe damage to the bridge deck, which is causing traffic congestion and endangering road users. Accompanied by Gunungsitoli Mayor Sowa’a Laoli and West Nias Regent Eliyunus Waruwu, he inspected other parts of the bridge planned for this year’s construction phase. “I received a number of inputs, ranging from the need for supporting facilities for fishermen, boat mooring facilities, to the construction of breakwaters,” he said. According to him, the Mo’awo River Bridge project was originally planned to begin last year but was postponed due to various obstacles. “Many people do not believe it, but I am determined to develop Nias. If there are those who sneer or mock, it does not matter to me. Because we are here on behalf of the government, and I am carrying out the state’s duty to be present here. The key is, do not let it be obstructed,” Bobby asserted. This statement was made after several local residents expressed concerns that the bridge construction would disrupt their businesses or livelihoods. “I am not thinking about one person, but this is for the wider public interest. So do not let public affairs be hindered because of certain individuals. If there are unresolved issues, we can find a solution together,” he said. “I also do not want any residents’ economic situation to be disrupted due to the construction. But there will indeed be impacts, and we can create temporary alternatives while the work is ongoing,” Bobby stressed. His administration is also considering the construction of a Technical Implementation Unit for the Marine and Fisheries Service in Gunungsitoli City. “The existence of this UPT is important to facilitate administrative services for fishing vessels over 5 GT, including issuing recommendations for obtaining subsidised diesel at public filling stations or fishing port filling stations,” said Bobby. Saewe Village Head in Gunungsitoli, Martonlis Telaumbanua, appreciated Governor Bobby Nasution’s agenda of working from the Nias Islands. He expressed hope that the provincial government’s presence would accelerate regional development in the archipelago. “Especially the infrastructure sector, which supports public welfare, alongside education and health,” said Martonlis.