Villagers Tell Prabowo: Once We Swam Across Rivers, Now We Have a Bridge

The presence of bridges built by the TNI-Polri has brought its own stories to communities in various regions. One of them was felt by Iman, a farmer in Ridomanah Village, West Java, who no longer has to use a raft or even swim to cross the river.

Iman recounted that rafts, or getek, used to be the mainstay of residents. Even when floods came and the raft could not be used, residents were sometimes forced to swim to reach the other side.

“Before there was a bridge, we sometimes used a getek, sir, a raft. Sometimes during the flood season, the raft would come loose. So when people crossed, they sometimes swam on their own, sir. It was difficult. Now, thank God, with this bridge, I am very grateful. Alhamdulillah,” said Iman, as quoted from a statement by BPMI of the Presidential Secretariat, Thursday (13/8/2026).

The river that used to be an obstacle on journeys can now be crossed more easily and safely. He also expressed his gratitude to President Prabowo.

“I am very grateful to Mr President Prabowo, very, very, very grateful for this bridge. So at first I crossed the river, now thank God I can cross this bridge,” he said.

Another resident, Evi Sri Rahayu, recounted how farmers had to find their own way to cross the river before the bridge was built. With makeshift equipment, they carried their agricultural produce across the river to continue their daily activities.

“Before there was a bridge, farmers used to cross using gallons or made something themselves, taking the initiative to cross while carrying rice, carrying things for the residents here. But thank God, now it can be passed by motorbike, so it is easier and more practical,” said Evi.

According to Evi, this convenience has not only shortened residents’ journeys but also opened up hope for the community’s economic movement. Access that previously had to be reached via the lower route and a detour is now faster with the presence of the bridge.

“The hope going forward is that the residents’ economy can progress further, it can be easier, it can be passed by motorbike. Previously we crossed via the lower route, but now thank God. It means the economy is easier, if anything happens we can cross directly, not far, it can be faster,” she said.

A similar story came from Maryati, a resident of Ridogalih Village who has lived in the area since childhood. She recalled the time when residents did not yet have a bridge and had to use an eretan, a simple bamboo raft, to reach the other side of the river.

Maryati hopes that infrastructure development for the community will continue, including road improvements and various other supporting facilities. She also expressed her appreciation to President Prabowo for the bridge that the community had long needed.

“To Mr President, we as residents of this village would like to say many thanks for the bridge that has been inaugurated as a facility for residents going to the rice fields and gardens. It is very helpful. Thank you,” said Maryati.