Simalungun Residents Build Makeshift Bridge as Government Repairs Stall

Residents of Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra, have resorted to building their own makeshift bridges after a vital access point was destroyed by a landslide and government repairs failed to materialise. A video posted by local resident Dita Purba went viral, highlighting the community’s plight and their frustration over the lack of action.

The bridge in Bangun Baru village, Dolok Silau district, is the sole access route to Nagori Lokkung, used daily by schoolchildren and farmers transporting their produce. Following the initial damage, the community independently built a wooden emergency bridge to maintain mobility. However, this structure later collapsed, forcing residents to build a second temporary bridge from simple planks and timber.

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution responded to the public outcry, stating that his administration would investigate the situation on the ground and ensure the issue is addressed. He emphasised that the provincial government would not differentiate between national, provincial, or district roads if the disruption affects the community’s activities within North Sumatra. The Governor also noted that the central government has provided Transfer to the Regions (TKD) funds and that his office would investigate how the Simalungun district government has utilised these resources.

The issue dates back to December 2025, when Simalungun Regent Anton Ahmad Saragih visited the site and promised that repairs would be completed within four months. Dita Purba stated that the community welcomed the promise, but construction has stalled and the temporary bridge has since been completely severed. Following the viral video, the district government visited the location again in early July 2026 and renewed its pledge to accelerate the repairs.