TNI Constructs Garuda Bridge to Boost Economy of Baros Residents
The District Military Command (Kodim) 0602/Serang in Banten province has constructed the Garuda Bridge in Mayak village, Baros district, Serang regency, to improve accessibility and boost the local economy.
The commander of Kodim 0602/Serang, Colonel Arm Oke Kristiyanto, stated on Monday, 9 March, that the 25-metre-long, 2-metre-wide bridge forms part of a national programme launching 200 Garuda Bridge points under the theme “TNI Present for the People.”
“This bridge connects Mayak village residents directly to Baros market. Previously, residents had to take a lengthy detour. We hope that with improved access, the local economy will strengthen,” Kristiyanto said.
Kristiyanto explained that the Garuda Bridge was constructed to replace a bamboo structure in deplorable condition. Since the main bridge at the location collapsed in 2002, residents relied solely on bamboo rafts to cross.
“Beyond economic considerations, the safety of schoolchildren remains a priority. With this permanent bridge, they can now reach school safely without risking their lives on the bamboo bridge,” he added.
The Regional Secretary (Sekda) of Serang regency, Zaldi Dhuhana, expressed appreciation for the Indonesian Army’s initiative. Given Serang regency’s geographical conditions, with numerous waterways dividing communities, the bridge significantly assists local government in meeting basic infrastructure needs.
“The local government will enhance the facilities developed by Kodim, such as reinforcing roads to the market with paving blocks or widening access roads,” Zaldi said.
Similarly, the Head of Serang State Prosecutors’ Office (Kajari), IG. Punia Atmaja NR, appealed to residents to maintain and protect the facility to ensure long-term benefits for goods and services mobility.
Aside from Baros, the military is also constructing similar bridge points in Cinangka subdistrict and a concrete bridge in Kibin subdistrict to strengthen inter-regional connectivity across Serang regency.