BANYUASIN – Residents of Mukut Village, Pulau Rimau District, Banyuasin Regency, have expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the Tanah Kering Bridge. This bridge, a crucial connector between four districts—Pulau Rimau, Selat Penuguan, Banyuasin 2, and Suak Tape—has become nearly impassable, disrupting daily activities and local economic operations.
Nasrul Halim, a member of the South Sumatra (Sumsel) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) from the National Awakening Party (PKB), voiced his concern after visiting the site. He noted that while the bridge, built in 1996, underwent rehabilitation in 2024, its current state is alarming.
“This bridge is the lifeline of the community’s economy, but its current condition makes it difficult for vehicles to pass. I urge the South Sumatra Provincial Government, particularly the Public Works and Highways Agency (PU BM), to take immediate action,” Nasrul stated on Saturday (December 7, 2024).
Nasrul emphasized that repairing the bridge is unlikely to be feasible using Banyuasin Regency’s budget alone, as the bridge falls under provincial jurisdiction. He plans to address this issue during the South Sumatra DPRD Plenary Session to draw the attention of the Acting Governor of South Sumatra.
“If we wait for the 2025 budget discussion, it will take too long. Meanwhile, residents are already struggling, and agricultural goods cannot be transported,” he explained.
Muhammad Walid, a Banyuasin DPRD member, echoed the call for immediate repairs. He suggested replacing the bridge’s decking as a temporary solution, considering the full repair would cost tens of billions of rupiahs. “For now, we need to ensure people can use the bridge, even if only minimally,” he said.
Several local residents, including Hasan, Hurik, Musli, and Bambang, also appealed for swift action. “This bridge is our primary access for daily activities. We hope it will be repaired soon,” one resident remarked.
Given the urgency, Nasrul called on the Public Works and Highways Agency to conduct an on-site inspection and implement temporary measures to restore functionality. He also stressed the importance of immediate action to prevent potential accidents due to the bridge’s poor condition.
“We urge the authorities to act quickly, as this issue impacts both the safety and economy of residents across four districts,” he concluded.