Khofifah Inaugurates Bubak Bridge in Mojokerto, Boosting Community Economic Access

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has inaugurated the Bubak Bridge in Gondang subdistrict, Mojokerto regency. The bridge, which was previously severed by flooding, now once again connects community activities whilst restoring inter-regional economic access.

The standard steel-frame bridge has a span of 60 metres and a road width of 7 metres, with a construction value of approximately Rp13 billion. The bridge represents new hope for the community, particularly in facilitating residents’ mobility, goods distribution, and social and religious activities.

“The inauguration feels especially momentous as it coincides with 1 Ramadan 1447 Hijriah. May the presence of Bubak Bridge become a symbol of strengthened community bonds, smoothing access for people to worship, work, trade and go about their activities, whilst bringing blessings to all residents of Gondang and Mojokerto regency,” said Khofifah in a written statement on Friday.

Khofifah made the remarks on Thursday. Construction of the bridge began following community aspirations conveyed to Mojokerto Regent Gus Barra after the bridge was severed by flooding.

Following up on the matter, Khofifah immediately instructed the East Java Provincial Public Works (PU) Bina Marga Agency to conduct field inspections and accelerate construction.

“Thank God, Bubak Bridge was completed 100 per cent a week ago,” she said.

According to Khofifah, infrastructure development is not merely about building physical structures but also about building connectivity, hope and the future. The presence of Bubak Bridge brings new hope not only for two villages but also new prospects concerning culture, education, social affairs, and economic mobility of goods and services.

“When there is new hope, new life, new economic sources, then everyone is happy,” she said.

Khofifah stated that the construction of Bubak Bridge was well-targeted and would have an impact on increasing economic circulation and community welfare.

The bridge construction, carried out by the East Java Provincial PU Bina Marga Agency and the Mojokerto Regency Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, was designed and executed with a design that is not only sturdy and functional but also aesthetically pleasing and photogenic.

“We can see together that Bubak Bridge has become a new icon and attraction for the Gondang area. I have even received reports that this area has developed into a new centre of community activity, including the growth of MSMEs in the surrounding area,” she said.

Khofifah called on all residents to collectively maintain and care for the bridge, urging that its beauty, cleanliness and aesthetics not be marred by vandalism, thuggery or irresponsible actions. She stressed that maintaining development is not solely the responsibility of local government but a collective duty.

“Please take care of the use of Bubak Bridge as it belongs to everyone. Please maintain cleanliness including waste, and ensure the fencing process on both sides proceeds safely and comfortably so the bridge can be enjoyed by the people of Mojokerto,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Mojokerto Regent Muhammad Al Barra expressed gratitude on behalf of Mojokerto regency for the attention given, enabling the Bubak Bridge — long awaited by residents of Gondang and Kebontunggul villages — to be inaugurated.

“In 2024, flooding caused the bridge to be severed, leaving residents pessimistic. However, Bubak Bridge has now been built and completed. This certainly serves not only as a connector but as a new icon for MSMEs in Gondang subdistrict,” he explained.

Siandi, the head of Kebontunggul village in Gondang subdistrict, thanked Khofifah and Gus Barra for inaugurating Bubak Bridge as a link between two villages, thereby increasing the economic value of both villages, particularly for MSMEs.

“May Bubak Bridge provide benefits for the people of Mojokerto,” he said.

The inauguration of Bubak Bridge was met with gratitude from local residents. Ustumawuh, a resident of Gondang village, expressed thanks to the local government for rebuilding Bubak Bridge, thereby restoring smooth access for the community.

“I am happy and grateful that Bubak Bridge can be used again because previously only motorcycles could cross. Thank you Governor Khofifah and Regent Muhammad Al Barra,” she said.

Similarly, Miftahul Huda, a resident of Gondang village, thanked Khofifah and the Mojokerto regency government for building Bubak Bridge, which has been highly beneficial and a blessing for the community.

“Bubak Bridge was eagerly awaited by the community. It is very impressive, beyond our expectations, bringing blessings and benefits for the people of Gondang village and the surrounding area,” he said.

“Furthermore, the construction of Bubak Bridge has brought economic growth for MSME operators,” he added.