RADAR TULUNGAGUNG – The long-awaited Sambirobyong-Pulotondo road repair has officially begun in Tulungagung, following years of complaints from residents about dangerous road conditions.

On Saturday (Feb. 21), Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo inspected the severely damaged road sections linking Sambirobyong and Pulotondo. He was accompanied by officials from Dinas PUPR Tulungagung, who surveyed multiple points showing deep potholes, uneven asphalt, and collapsed shoulders.

Authorities warned that the road has posed serious risks, especially during the rainy season when water fills potholes and obscures hazards. Residents said the damage has persisted for about five years, disrupting daily life. Students often arrive late to school, workers face longer commutes, and local businesses report delayed distribution. Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to accidents.

During the inspection, the regent walked through flooded potholes and briefly stumbled, underscoring the severity of the damage. He confirmed that repair work started Monday (Feb. 23), funded by the central government after administrative and technical processes were completed.

Officials estimate the full reconstruction will take around four months. However, the regent said temporary patching will be prioritized so the road becomes passable before the Eid holiday, when travel typically surges.

Traffic management will be implemented during construction, and residents are urged to exercise caution near the project area. Despite short-term disruptions ahead of Ramadan and Eid, the regent stressed the long-term benefits. “There will be temporary inconvenience, but this will create safer access and support local economic activity,” he said.