BLITAR – CR Sukandar landslide in Blitar is worsening, forcing nearby residents to relocate as erosion continues to damage a key bridge structure. Authorities have closed the road completely due to safety concerns.
Since the first collapse in January, the affected area has expanded along the northern side and beneath the eastern section of the bridge. Consequently, the alternative route linking Imam Bonjol Street and Dr. Soetomo Street is now inaccessible.
Field observations show the structure growing increasingly unstable. Soil erosion has weakened the northern foundation, while the road surface has started to deform. These conditions raise serious safety risks for passing vehicles.
Togar Vegantara, a resident whose home stands next to the landslide site, said the situation has become dangerous. “The lower northern side of the bridge is no longer stable. If authorities do not fix it soon, it will be very risky, especially as the road surface has already started to warp,” he said.
As erosion reaches his yard, his family has taken precautionary steps. Two households have moved temporarily to rented accommodation nearby.
“We rent a small place in the next alley. At night we stay there, and during the day we return home. We pay Rp 500,000 per month,” Togar added.
Meanwhile, the Blitar Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency (PUPR) is finalizing repair plans. According to agency head Erna Santi, officials are prioritizing the fastest solution while securing funding.
“We are preparing the most feasible approach first. The damage developed gradually after heavy rains earlier this year, and at that time we had no allocated budget. We are also proposing support from the central government,” she said.
From a technical standpoint, the damage affects the bridge’s abutments on both the eastern and western sides. Given the structure’s age, the project will likely require comprehensive reconstruction.
The government has proposed a budget of more than Rp 600 million. Once approved, authorities aim to begin physical repairs in June.
Beyond structural risks, the road closure has disrupted daily mobility. The area serves a nearby private school with many students. As a result, residents and students must take longer routes via A. Yani Street or Sudanco Supriyadi Street.