TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 Bridge closure impact has begun to affect small businesses that rely on daily traffic along the main road connecting Tulungagung and Trenggalek. As authorities close the bridge for a major reconstruction project, many roadside vendors now face uncertainty over their income and future sales.

For years, the area around Gondang 1 Bridge bustled with activity. Trucks, buses, motorcycles, and private vehicles moved constantly along one of the region’s busiest transportation corridors. That traffic brought a steady stream of customers to food stalls, coffee shops, and small roadside businesses.

However, the atmosphere changed dramatically after officials closed the bridge on Tuesday afternoon. Traffic disappeared almost overnight, leaving once-busy stretches of road unusually quiet.

While motorists now face longer journeys through alternative routes, local vendors face a different challenge. Many of them depend heavily on passing travelers who stop to buy food, drinks, or other necessities during their trips.

One of those vendors is Mu’in, who operates a food and beverage business near the bridge. He said the effects of the road closure became visible immediately.

“Of course it affects us right away. That is what happens when the main access road closes completely,” Mu’in said.

According to him, spontaneous purchases from passing drivers formed a large part of his daily revenue. Since traffic no longer passes through the area, those customers have largely vanished.

Despite the difficult situation, many traders are trying to adapt. Instead of relying solely on motorists, they are now looking toward the bridge reconstruction project itself as a possible source of business.

Construction activities will bring dozens of workers to the site for several months. Local vendors hope those workers can create a new customer base and help offset losses caused by declining traffic.

Mu’in said informal discussions with project representatives have already provided some encouragement. Contractors may involve nearby food vendors to help supply meals and beverages for workers during the construction period.

“Mr. Yanto from the contractor told us they might ask us to prepare meals and coffee for the construction workers,” Mu’in recalled.

Even so, not every business can benefit from that opportunity. Some vendors sell products that do not match project needs. Others still struggle to attract customers as dust, construction equipment, and restricted access replace the constant flow of vehicles.

Yet many traders remain determined to keep operating. Every morning, they continue opening their stalls and arranging their products as usual. They hope customers will eventually return, even if in smaller numbers.

“Livelihood comes from God. Someone will come eventually. God always provides a way,” Mu’in said with a smile.

For many small business owners along the quiet Gondang corridor, that optimism has become their most valuable asset. As traffic stops flowing, hope remains the key ingredient helping them endure the months ahead.