TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 Bridge closure has dramatically increased traffic on alternative routes across southern Tulungagung, forcing thousands of vehicles to shift away from the main corridor. Motorcycles, private cars, intercity buses, and heavy trucks now rely on diversion roads that were not previously designed to handle such volumes.
Field observations show that the southern corridor stretching from the Tamanan intersection to the Durenan intersection in neighboring Trenggalek remains operational. However, traffic volumes have risen sharply since authorities closed the bridge completely.
The increase is most visible in the number of buses and heavy trucks using the southern route. Residents say large vehicles that once traveled along the main road now dominate the alternative corridor.
Chalvin, a resident of Pakel District who uses the route daily, said drivers immediately felt the impact of the bridge closure. According to him, traffic density has increased significantly over the past several days.
“The road is extremely busy now. Many large vehicles have switched to this route, including buses, heavy trucks, and other vehicles that usually travel on the main road,” he said.
The influx of large vehicles has reduced available road space for other motorists. Motorcycle riders often move closer to the roadside when they encounter buses or trucks traveling in the opposite direction.
Despite the heavier traffic, authorities have not reported any major accidents or road damage that disrupted vehicle movement. Instead, congestion has become the primary challenge, especially at key intersections.
Chalvin said traffic jams frequently occur at the Bandung and Campurdarat intersections. Long queues often form when large vehicles attempt to turn because they require more space and additional time to complete maneuvers.
As a result, traffic behind those vehicles quickly backs up. Drivers often face delays during peak travel periods.
A similar situation has emerged on the eastern alternative route that connects the Jetakan and Gondang intersections. Vehicles continue to move through the corridor, but growing traffic volumes have begun to strain road capacity.
Renal, a resident of Gondang District, said traffic conditions changed noticeably after officials closed the main route. He believes narrow roads become a problem when six-wheeled trucks enter the diversion corridor.
“Traffic has become much busier since the main road closed. Some large vehicles continue using these narrow roads. Several congestion incidents have already occurred because the road width is limited,” he said.
Conditions differ slightly on the western alternative route through Mojoarum. Traffic generally flows smoothly, although periodic congestion appears at several intersections, particularly at the Pampang junction.
Observers say many drivers contribute to delays when they make sudden U-turns after discovering that certain connecting roads remain inaccessible. Some motorists also overlook road closure signs that authorities installed near entry points.
A pedestrian near the Pampang intersection said drivers frequently reverse direction after learning that the road toward Ngrendeng offers limited width and does not comfortably accommodate larger vehicles.
Local authorities continue monitoring traffic patterns as motorists adjust to the new route arrangements. Officials expect alternative corridors to remain under pressure while the Gondang 1 Bridge remains closed.