Kodam IV/Diponegoro completes Garuda Suspension Bridge in Pekalongan

The Komando Daerah Militer (Kodam) IV/Diponegoro has completed the construction of a Garuda Suspension Bridge connecting Wonopringgo and Karanganyar sub-districts in Pekalongan Regency, Central Java. Kodam IV/Diponegoro Commander Major General TNI Achiruddin Darojat stated that the bridge was built as a rapid response by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) after the previous bridge was destroyed by flash floods on 20 January 2025. “The flash flood paralysed infrastructure in Galangpengampon Village, including a bridge that served as a vital access point for the community. The presence of this new bridge is expected to restore residents’ activities while improving their welfare,” he said during the inauguration ceremony for the 120-metre bridge. The Pangdam emphasised that all development programmes carried out by the TNI are intended to assist the community without expecting anything in return. “We work sincerely and wholeheartedly. Our sole intention is to help overcome the difficulties faced by the people, because the TNI comes from the people and will always be present for the people,” he said. Acting Regent of Pekalongan Sukirman urged the residents of Galangpengampon Village to maintain and care for the newly inaugurated Garuda Suspension Bridge. “The existence of this bridge is an important asset that will facilitate residents’ mobility while supporting village economic growth,” he said. He noted that the bridge, which connects Sibetok and Galangwolu hamlets, is the result of synergy between the government and the TNI in delivering infrastructure that is genuinely needed by the community. “Therefore, I hope all residents will have a sense of ownership so that this facility can be utilised in the long term. My message to the people of Galangpengampon is please look after and maintain this bridge because it has been built and handed over to us, so make the best use of it and keep it durable,” he added. He further noted that the bridge will cut travel time for residents heading to areas such as Wonopringgo and Karanganyar, which previously required a long detour due to the absence of a connecting access.