BLITAR – The Banggle-Sawentar Bridge reopening is set to take place before Eid in Blitar Regency after repair works reached the final stage. The bridge, which connects Banggle and Sawentar villages in Kanigoro district, collapsed in January and forced residents onto temporary alternative routes.

Hamdan Zulkifli, head of highways at the Blitar Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, said workers had completed the concrete casting. However, the bridge remains closed while the concrete gains full strength. Therefore, authorities target reopening on March 7 or 8, about two weeks ahead of Eid.

He explained that concrete requires around 28 days to reach optimal durability. Once that period passes, vehicles can cross safely and comfortably. Currently, only motorcycles can pass near the site. Meanwhile, most residents rely on an improvised path across rice fields that locals voluntarily prepared.

Hamdan stressed that the bridge serves as a primary transport link between the two villages. For that reason, the government prioritized repairs using rapid response funds from the Blitar regional budget. During the closure, officials continue to urge motorists to follow the designated detour and traffic signs for safety.

Authorities expect transport flows and local economic activity to normalize after reopening. Hamdan said the government aims to ensure safe use during the Eid travel period. Nevertheless, he asked residents to remain patient because construction requires time and cannot be rushed.

The Banggle-Sawentar Bridge collapsed on Jan 22 after its aging foundation deteriorated. Residents had long complained about structural damage beneath the old bridge. Consequently, the sudden failure cut a vital rural connection until emergency reconstruction began.