New Toll Road Connecting South Sumatra and Jambi Targeted for 2027 Completion
The development of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) continues to progress, specifically with the Betung-Jambi Section 1B project being undertaken by PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur (HKI). As of late June 2024, the progress of this toll road has reached 31%. Once finished, this section will connect the Babat Supat and Tungkal Jaya districts with a total length of 31.58 km.
Defi Adrian, Director of Operations III at HKI, stated that the construction of the Betung-Jambi Section 1B is a vital component in strengthening inter-regional connectivity, particularly between the provinces of South Sumatra and Jambi. “HKI is committed to completing the construction of the Betung-Jambi Section 1B while prioritising quality, occupational safety, and sustainable construction principles. The presence of this section is expected to increase the efficiency of public mobility and logistics distribution, while simultaneously driving economic growth in the surrounding areas,” said Defi.
The Betung-Jambi Section 1B is part of the larger Betung-Tempino-Jambi Toll Road, which aims to enhance connectivity from the Betung area towards Tempino and Jambi. Currently, travelling via the existing highway from Betung to Jambi takes approximately 1.5 hours under smooth traffic conditions, but can extend to three or four hours during congestion. Once the toll road is operational, travel time on this route is projected to be slashed to around 30 minutes.
During the construction process, HKI is implementing several construction technologies, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), photogrammetry, and load scanners. These technologies are utilised to support planning, progress monitoring, material volume measurement, field condition documentation, and more accurate, data-driven decision-making. Defi also highlighted the involvement of local communities during this construction phase.
“The construction of this toll road involves local communities through the absorption of labour based on competence, the empowerment of micro, small, and medium enterprises as suppliers for food, beverages, and supporting materials, as well as the use of local services for various tasks, such as solid sodding installation,” he noted. He added that HKI is also coordinating with community leaders, village governments, and local authorities to maintain security and order within the project area.
The Betung-Jambi Section 1B construction project is targeted for completion in 2027. The presence of this section is expected to accelerate public mobility, strengthen connectivity between South Sumatra and Jambi, and promote economic growth and equitable development in the surrounding regions.