Task Force Monitors Permanent Bridge Construction in Simalungun

The Task Force for Accelerated Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) is monitoring the construction of a permanent bridge in Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra, following a devastating landslide. The task force is responding to local aspirations to accelerate the recovery of infrastructure damaged by the hydrometeorological disaster.

Brigadier General Fadjar Tjahjono, Head of the Regional Task Force, stated that the presence of Satgas PRR is a commitment from the central government to ensure the rehabilitation and reconstruction process proceeds as planned and delivers tangible benefits to the affected community. “I was appointed as the Regional Head and I am responsible for being here to ensure the construction process is completed immediately,” Fadjar said during a monitoring visit to Marubun Lokkung Village on Thursday (16/7/2026).

Fadjar emphasised that the road section in Marubun Lokkung Village plays a strategic role in driving the community’s economic activity, making its completion urgent. The task force has requested that the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) immediately realise a temporary diversion route and strengthen coordination with the 0207/Simalungun Military District Command to ensure fieldwork runs more effectively.

The landslide, which occurred in November 2025, severed the road in Dusun IV Bangun Baru. Extreme weather subsequently triggered further landslides, damaging the emergency works and cutting off the main access route again. While a temporary emergency bridge was built by residents, it can only accommodate two-wheeled vehicles, whereas the original road was a main artery for four-wheeled vehicles and trucks transporting palm oil plantation produce.

Lusman Siagian, the Commitment Making Officer for the Simalungun BPBD, explained that the permanent bridge construction has been underway for approximately six months. Challenges including extreme weather and subsequent landslides necessitated a design adjustment, extending the box culvert installation from nine metres to 21 metres to ensure the structure’s long-term strength and safety. The local government is also preparing a detour route on community land to maintain connectivity during construction, while the emergency bridge will remain operational under strict safety regulations.