Perintis Garuda Suspension Bridge Eases Access for Aceh Tamiang Residents

The 240-metre-long Perintis Garuda Suspension Bridge spanning the Tamiang River has become one of Indonesia’s longest pioneer suspension bridges and a new landmark for Aceh Tamiang Regency. The bridge connects Bandar Mahligai Village and Sekerak Kiri Village in Sekerak District, which had faced transport access limitations for decades. Constructed in just three months by a joint TNI contingent as a rapid response to the hydro-meteorological disaster that struck Aceh in November 2025, it has transformed local mobility. Prior to the bridge’s construction, residents had to cross the river by wooden boat or take a detour via Karang Baru and Sungai Liput, adding one to two hours to their journey. Now, travel between villages takes approximately five minutes. Commander of Korem 011/Lilawangsa, Colonel (Inf) Ali Imran, stated the bridge was built to address the community’s urgent post-disaster needs. “This area has lacked access for decades. Responding to Aceh flood survivors’ requests, we constructed it. At 240 metres, it is now Indonesia’s longest suspension bridge,” he said in a written statement on Wednesday (27/5/2026). He explained the 1.2-metre-wide bridge, with a load capacity of 400 kilograms, was built to accelerate mobility between the two villages long divided by the Tamiang River. Beyond serving as a vital link for economic and educational activities, the Perintis Garuda Suspension Bridge is also emerging as a new tourist destination in Aceh Tamiang. The scenic views of Sekerak and the bridge’s architecture attract residents for selfies, evening relaxation, and capturing sunset moments over the river. For students, the bridge offers safety and convenience. A local student confirmed she can now commute to school without relying on boats. “Getting to school is much easier now—no more boats. I can simply cross the bridge,” she said. The Perintis Garuda Suspension Bridge also symbolises infrastructure development that not only restores physical connectivity but also revitalises the economic, educational, and social fabric of Aceh Tamiang’s communities following the disaster.