Indonesian military repairs inter-village bridge in Central Tapanuli

Tapteng, North Sumatra (ANTARA) — Members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) from Territorial Development Infantry Battalion 908/Gaja Dompak (Yonif TP 908/GD) are assisting in the repair of a bridge connecting villages in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, which had been isolated following flash floods in the area in November 2025.

Personnel from Yonif TP 908/GD were seen collectively hauling river stones in preparation for rebuilding the inter-village bridge, which was severed once again after being struck by flooding on Monday (16 February).

“We are currently working to gather stones and assemble an Aramco bridge,” said TNI officer Second Lieutenant Riswan Sinaga of Yonif TP 908/GD in Central Tapanuli on Sunday.

According to him, the bridge linking Hutanabolon Sub-district and Sigiring-giring Village in Tukka District, Central Tapanuli Regency, had previously been rebuilt and was passable by vehicles, but a subsequent flash flood destroyed it once more.

He said the reconstruction of the bridge was aimed at ensuring that residents of Sigiring-giring Village would no longer be cut off. “The bridge we are rebuilding is to reconnect the villages,” he said.

Riswan added that his unit had deployed 100 personnel to accelerate the repair of the severed bridge.

Currently, residents can cross the Tukka River by wading through the flowing water. However, this is dangerous when rain falls in the area.

The bridge also serves as the only access route for residents of Sigiring-giring Village travelling to other areas within Tukka District.