TULUNGAGUNG – The closure of Gondang 1 Bridge in East Java continues to create traffic challenges one week after reconstruction work began, with authorities reporting repeated violations by heavy truck drivers attempting to bypass official detour routes.
Police in Tulungagung Regency said five large trucks have been ticketed during the first seven days of the Gondang 1 Bridge closure after drivers ignored traffic restrictions and entered narrow village roads not designated for heavy vehicles.
Ahmad Zainudin of the Tulungagung Traffic Police said road users have shown better compliance in recent days. However, several drivers operating six-wheel trucks and larger vehicles continue to break traffic regulations.
“Most people understand the traffic pattern and follow the rules. However, a small number of truck drivers still use prohibited roads,” Zainudin said on Monday.
Traffic officers have stopped many violators and directed them back to the official route. When warnings failed to deter repeat offenses, police issued citations. During the first week of the Gondang 1 Bridge closure, officers fined five truck drivers for ignoring traffic signs and entering restricted roads.
Police continue to prioritize education over punishment. Officers regularly warn drivers and explain the reasons behind the restrictions. Nevertheless, some operators continue to disregard the rules.
According to traffic police, fuel expenses remain the main reason for the violations. Drivers argue that the official detour adds distance and increases transportation costs.
“Many drivers say they want to save fuel. They believe the alternative route adds distance and raises transportation costs,” Zainudin explained.
Officials say engineers and transportation experts carefully evaluated the diversion route before the bridge closure started. They selected the route because it can handle traffic safely during construction and reduce risks for motorists.
The violations have also created problems for nearby residents. Heavy trucks have damaged road surfaces, drainage channels, retaining walls, and roadside infrastructure in several locations.
Residents have submitted the highest number of complaints near the Cabe intersection, around the Gondang District Office, and along roads in Mojoarum Village. These roads primarily serve local traffic and cannot support frequent heavy truck movements.
“The biggest concern now is not congestion. Residents are worried about road and drainage damage caused by heavy trucks,” Zainudin said.
Traffic police plan to meet local government officials, transportation stakeholders, and community representatives. The group will review current traffic measures and consider additional steps if drivers continue violating the restrictions.
Authorities closed Gondang 1 Bridge because the aging structure could no longer handle rising traffic volumes along the Tulungagung-Trenggalek corridor. Indonesia’s National Road Implementation Agency is replacing the bridge with a stronger and wider structure.
Officials expect the new bridge to improve safety, increase load capacity, and support smoother traffic flow across southern East Java.