Handling of Landslide on Tarutung-Sibolga Road Accelerated
Efforts to address landslide points on the Tarutung-Sibolga national highway in North Sumatra are being expedited to ensure safe and smooth public access ahead of the 2026 Eid exodus. This directive was delivered directly by Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo during an inspection of the work progress in Lobu Pining Village, Adian Koting District, Tapanuli Utara Regency. The inspection focused on repairs to the road body affected by landslides through the construction of Retaining Walls (DPT) using borepile reinforcement systems at points STA 16+350 and STA 16+550.
During the visit, the Public Works Minister was accompanied by Hutama Karya’s Director of Operations I Gunadi, Senior Vice President Akhyaarul Umam, and officials from the Regional Implementation Office for National Roads, North Sumatra.
Dody stated that the Medan-Sibolga cross-route generally was ready for use to support public mobility during the Eid exodus period. According to him, road conditions from Medan to the inspected location demonstrated adequate readiness to handle increased traffic.
“Looking at the roads from Medan, they are already in good condition. From the perspective of road readiness, I believe they are very adequate and prepared to handle the Eid exodus traffic from H-7 to H+7,” said Dody.
He also emphasised that field teams had been placed on standby to respond quickly should disasters such as landslides occur.
“As soon as a landslide happens, we immediately clear it so that public mobility is not disrupted for too long,” he said.
Separately, Hamdani, Acting Executive Vice President and Company Secretary of Hutama Karya, stated that the company’s involvement in handling this landslide was part of its commitment as a strategic partner of the government. Hutama Karya is now accelerating permanent handling of the road body affected by landslides on the Tarutung–Sibolga section.
He noted that Hutama Karya had been involved since the initial stage of post-disaster reconstruction that occurred at the end of last year.
“Our consistent presence at the location reflects our commitment to restore national connectivity. Through this permanent intervention, we hope that the public’s Eid exodus can proceed safely and smoothly,” said Hamdani.
Beyond accelerating construction work, Hutama Karya is also ensuring that the quality and safety of construction remain a priority. The company has also deployed personnel at multiple vulnerable points along the route to anticipate potential disruptions resulting from weather conditions during the Eid period.