TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 Bridge closure has increased traffic on alternative routes in Tulungagung. However, local authorities warn that some diversion roads still pose safety risks, especially for motorcyclists traveling at night.
One of the main concerns involves the eastern alternative route that passes through the Jetakan intersection in Gondang. Drivers now use the road more frequently after authorities closed the bridge completely. As traffic volumes continue to rise, concerns about road safety have also grown.
Officials say the route remains vulnerable because of its narrow road width and limited street lighting coverage. These conditions reduce visibility after dark and increase the risk of traffic accidents.
Ferdi Arif Iswahyudi, Head of Traffic Management and Engineering at the Tulungagung Transportation Agency, acknowledged the challenges facing road users. He urged motorists to stay alert while traveling along the diversion routes.
“Motorcyclists and other road users need to remain careful because traffic has become much busier following the diversion,” Ferdi said.
The traffic surge has placed additional pressure on roads that originally handled lower vehicle volumes. Many drivers now rely on these connections to travel between districts while the bridge project continues.
Road lighting has become another major issue. Although the government has installed public street lights along sections of the eastern diversion route, several areas still lack adequate illumination.
According to Ferdi, authorities have provided lighting infrastructure in parts of the Jetakan-Gondang corridor. However, some sections remain uncovered, leaving several dark spots along the route.
Those poorly lit areas create additional hazards for daily commuters. Drivers may struggle to identify road conditions, approaching vehicles, or unexpected obstacles during nighttime travel.
As a result, the Transportation Agency has placed lighting improvements among its immediate priorities. Officials are preparing technical measures to strengthen road safety and reduce potential risks for motorists.
Ferdi said his office plans to maximize the performance of existing street lights. Maintenance crews may also repair damaged units and replace lamps in locations where lighting remains insufficient.
The agency continues to monitor traffic conditions along the alternative route. Officials believe stronger lighting will help improve visibility and support safer travel for residents affected by the bridge closure.
Meanwhile, maintenance work on public street lighting systems has accelerated. Transportation authorities hope the upgrades will offset safety concerns caused by the narrow roadway and growing traffic volumes.
Until improvements reach all sections of the route, officials urge drivers to reduce speed, remain vigilant, and exercise extra caution when traveling through the diversion corridor at night.