Kapolri to Inaugurate Transformed Merah Putih Bridge in Riau
The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) has completed the construction of the Merah Putih Presisi Bridge in South Dumai District, Dumai City. The bridge, which connects two villages, will be inaugurated by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The inauguration is planned for Wednesday morning (8/7/2026). The completion of the 80 bridges serves as a special gift coinciding with the 80th Bhayangkara Day celebrations.
The bridge stands as a silent witness to a long history of supporting residents’ mobility. It was originally built by the local community through mutual cooperation in 1984. After more than a decade, the bridge was renovated by the local government to increase its capacity. Over time, the wooden structure decayed, making it unsafe for use.
Now, the bridge stands sturdy. With a structure built from steel materials, residents no longer need to worry when crossing it. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan stated that the construction of the Merah Putih Presisi Bridge is a tangible form of the National Police’s dedication to the community. “The construction of this Merah Putih Presisi Bridge is real proof that the National Police is not only present to enforce the law but also to help the community realise connectivity,” said Inspector General Herry.
By early June 2026, Polda Riau, together with community elements and the 10.11 Putra Peduli Foundation, had renovated the bridge. The entire main structure of the bridge was replaced with iron materials to make it stronger and safer. A total of 80 bridges have been completed in Phase II across various regencies and cities in Riau Province. To date, Polda Riau has built a total of 110 bridges in remote areas.
The presence of these dozens of new bridges is expected to reduce travel time between isolated regions, improve safety for residents during their activities, and facilitate the distribution of agricultural produce and local logistics. With improved connectivity, economic activity at the village to city level in Riau is projected to grow more evenly and sustainably. Beyond the massive economic impact, this project also stands as a strong symbol of synergy between the National Police, local governments, the private sector, and volunteers. This collective spirit of mutual cooperation proves that geographical challenges in remote areas can be overcome through solid collaboration among all elements of the nation. Through the inauguration of the Phase II Merah Putih Presisi Bridges, Polda Riau is not only handing over physical infrastructure but also bequeathing a social legacy of security and mutual trust. This spirit of dedication is expected to be felt by future generations in Bumi Lancang Kuning.