National Police Chief Inaugurates 80 Precision Red and White Bridges in Riau

Dumai, Riau (ANTARA) - National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo inaugurated 80 Red and White Precision Bridges across the Riau Regional Police jurisdiction on Wednesday, with the main ceremony centred on Jalan Perintis in Bumi Ayu Village, Dumai City. “These Precision Red and White Bridges represent the National Police’s dedication to the community. We hope their presence will facilitate residents’ mobility, support economic growth, ease access to education and health services, and improve public welfare,” he stated. The focal point of the event was a bridge on Jalan Perintis in South Dumai District, originally constructed in 1984 by a police officer who has since passed away. Over time, the wooden bridge became a vital economic and educational link for local residents and schoolchildren. For many years, this bridge connecting Bumi Ayu and Bukit Datuk sub-districts remained a wooden structure and was never upgraded to concrete by the local government. The prolonged neglect left the bridge severely damaged, with holes and uneven surfaces that endangered those crossing it. To make temporary repairs, residents had to organise community self-help efforts using their own funds. After the Riau Regional Police included the bridge in the Precision Red and White Bridge programme under the Dumai Police jurisdiction, its condition was completely transformed into a stronger, sturdier, and more suitable concrete structure. “We are very relieved now that the bridge is stronger and fit for use. Previously, residents and even motorbikes would often fall through the holes in the wooden bridge. Thank you to the National Police for their concern in building this bridge,” a local resident said. The 80 bridges inaugurated by the National Police Chief are spread across various regencies and cities in Riau Province. The programme represents a tangible demonstration of the police force’s commitment to improving inter-regional connectivity and easing public transportation access, particularly in areas that have long suffered from infrastructure limitations. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heriawan stated that the construction of the 80 bridges was the result of collaboration between all elements of society and the National Police to deliver directly beneficial development. “This programme proves that the National Police is not only present to maintain security and public order but also contributes through infrastructure development that can be felt by the wider community. We hope all these bridges will serve as links to progress and prosperity for the people of Riau,” he said. The inauguration was also attended by Acting Governor of Riau SF Hariyanto, Dumai Police Chief AKBP Angga FH, Dumai Mayor Paisal, the Commander of the Riau Military Command, the Commander of Special Forces Group 3, members of the regional leadership coordination forum, and community leaders.