TNI Constructs Garuda Suspension Bridge across Paniki River to Open Access for Residents
Jakarta — The Indonesian Army (TNI Angkatan Darat) has constructed the Garuda Suspension Bridge across the Paniki River in Bonda Village, Mamuju Regency, West Sulawesi, to open transportation access for residents whose connectivity has been hampered for decades by the strong currents of the Paniki River.
Residents of Bonda Village previously had to cross the river using makeshift rafts or emergency bamboo bridges that often washed away during flooding, frequently disrupting community activities such as children attending school and transporting agricultural produce to markets.
“The construction of the Garuda Suspension Bridge across the Paniki River is part of the infrastructure development programme for ordinary citizens initiated by President Prabowo Subianto to open access to remote regions across various areas in Indonesia,” said Major General Jonathan Binsar Parluhutan Sianipar, Commander of the XXIII/Palaka Military Region, in a statement issued in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He explained that the steel-structured suspension bridge is expected to improve regional connectivity whilst supporting economic activities and mobility for residents in Bonda Village.
“Now with the establishment of a sturdy steel-structured suspension bridge, residents can cross the river more safely. The bridge also permits two-wheeled vehicles to pass, making it easier for residents to carry out their daily activities,” he said.
The bridge construction involved TNI soldiers working alongside local residents through the spirit of mutual cooperation, representing a synergy between the Army and government in delivering infrastructure to remote areas.
One Bonda Village resident, Aminah, expressed gratitude for the bridge’s construction as it facilitates crossing the river and transporting agricultural produce to markets.
“Thank you to the President for this bridge construction. Now we can cross safely and it is much easier to bring our agricultural products to market,” Aminah said.
The Garuda Suspension Bridge across the Paniki River was subsequently inaugurated for use by Major General Jonathan Binsar Parluhutan Sianipar, Commander of the XXIII/Palaka Military Region, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony with residents of Bonda Village.