TNI-Polri build 3,395 bridges to improve public access

A total of 3,395 Merah Putih bridges built by the TNI and Polri across various regions of Indonesia have improved public access to essential facilities, from education to healthcare.

Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak said in a press statement from the Government Communication Agency (Bakom) in Jakarta on Thursday that the TNI has built 2,500 bridges benefiting around 4.5 million Indonesians.

“All of these bridges have connected 7,807 villages and sub-districts and helped the public access 4,618 economic facilities,” he said.

Maruli expressed hope that the bridges, which were inaugurated by the President earlier that morning, would ease the distribution of goods and services to remote areas.

He explained that the bridges have helped the public access 4,502 healthcare facilities, allowing medical assistance to reach areas in need more quickly.

In addition, he said, the bridges have also made it easier for students to reach 9,008 schools, so they no longer need to undertake risky journeys to obtain an education.

“There are 9,008 schools that are now accessible, so schoolchildren, as the President hopes, no longer need to get wet or face risks to reach school,” he said.

Maruli noted the significant benefits of the bridges, expressing optimism that TNI personnel can complete the construction of 5,000 bridges targeted for completion by 2026.

“We are confident that these 5,000 bridges can be completed as our construction techniques become faster and we continue to evaluate the specifications in bridge construction,” he said.

According to Bakom, similar benefits are also being delivered by 895 Merah Putih Presisi bridges that have been built or revitalised by the Polri, with 874 units completed, 17 units under construction, and 4 units in the planning stage.

Separately, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo said the 874 completed bridges have a total length of 119.2 kilometres and have connected 1,314 villages.

The five-star police general expressed hope that all of these bridges would ease access and activities for local residents, from schoolchildren, farmers, traders, workers, and micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) operators, to the general public.

“We hope that the construction of the Merah Putih Presisi bridges will provide a multiplier effect for the community through the smooth distribution of agricultural produce and trade,” he said.

“It will also provide access for students heading to school and foster the growth of new economic centres in rural areas,” he added.