TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 bridge closure has left many motorists struggling to adjust to new diversion routes, with traffic congestion emerging quickly on several alternative roads between Tulungagung and Trenggalek.
Authorities closed Gondang 1 Bridge to allow reconstruction work on the important provincial corridor. As a result, road users now rely on alternative routes that originally served local traffic between districts. The sudden increase in vehicle volume has created congestion at several key points.
Traffic problems appeared almost immediately after officials implemented the diversion plan. Narrow roads and limited capacity slowed vehicle movement, especially during peak hours. Long lines of motorcycles formed as commuters tried to navigate unfamiliar routes.
Via, a university student from Trenggalek who frequently travels to Tulungagung through the eastern diversion route near the Gondang intersection, said she noticed traffic disorder from the first day of the closure.
“Yesterday, I saw many motorcyclists getting confused and turning back because they took the wrong route near the beginning of the diversion area,” Via said.
She also criticized truck drivers who ignored traffic rules and entered roads reserved for motorcycles.
“This alternative route only allows two-wheeled vehicles. However, some cargo trucks still force their way into the route,” she said.
Other commuters reported similar experiences. Ahmad, a motorcycle rider who regularly travels through the area, said congestion has significantly increased his travel time.
“Even though this road only serves motorcycles, traffic still becomes very heavy during busy hours. Large numbers of motorcycles gather on these narrow roads and block the flow of traffic. The situation becomes worse when large vehicles enter from the opposite direction,” Ahmad said.
Road users say the characteristics of the alternative routes contribute to the congestion. Many of the roads pass through residential areas and contain numerous bends. Their limited width makes it difficult for large numbers of vehicles to move smoothly.
Gading, a local resident who frequently travels through Mojoarum Village, said the route faces traffic problems because of its road conditions and surrounding environment.
“This road passes through a densely populated residential area and has many turns. That slows traffic and creates congestion,” Gading said.
Many motorists now urge authorities to tighten supervision at access points along the diversion network. They want officers to stop cars and heavy trucks from entering roads that cannot accommodate large vehicles.
The reconstruction of Gondang 1 Bridge will continue for several months. During that period, commuters expect authorities to improve traffic control measures and enforce diversion rules more strictly. Stronger monitoring could help reduce congestion and improve safety on the narrow alternative routes.