TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 Bridge reconstruction project has officially begun after authorities closed the key route connecting Tulungagung and Trenggalek due to serious structural concerns. Officials shut down the bridge completely on Tuesday at 2:35 p.m. local time and immediately started demolition work.
The bridge serves as one of the main transportation links between the two regencies. However, engineers concluded that the structure had reached a critical condition and could no longer safely support daily traffic.
Authorities expect the reconstruction project to take six months. Contractors aim to complete the new bridge by December 11, 2026. During construction, all vehicles must use alternative routes prepared by local authorities and traffic police.
Project field supervisor Osky Ardianto said technical assessments identified severe deterioration throughout the bridge structure. Engineers classified the bridge in the red category, indicating a critical level of damage.
“The structure of Gondang 1 Bridge has experienced significant deterioration,” Osky told reporters.
According to project officials, the most serious problems appeared in the bridge’s lower structure and foundation system. The damage caused one side of the bridge deck to sink, raising concerns about long-term safety.
Engineers warned that continued operation under heavy traffic loads could increase the risk of structural failure. As a result, authorities decided to replace the entire bridge instead of carrying out partial repairs.
“The bridge entered a critical or red-category condition based on technical studies. Its service life has declined sharply, so we decided to demolish and rebuild it this year,” Osky explained.
Signs of deterioration were also visible to the public. Project teams observed damage in the lower structure, while one section of the bridge floor showed noticeable settlement. Those conditions strengthened concerns about the bridge’s stability.
Following demolition, contractors will begin reconstruction from the foundation level. Workers will remove the existing foundations, abutments, and upper structures before installing a completely new support system.
The project will use a stross foundation method, which engineers consider stronger and more stable for long-term performance. After foundation installation, crews will continue with diaphragm construction and pillar development.
“Reconstruction starts with removing the old foundations, both abutments, and the upper structure. After that, we will install new foundations and continue with the remaining structural work,” Osky said.
Although the project introduces stronger engineering solutions and modern construction techniques, the new bridge will largely retain the appearance of the previous structure. Designers chose to preserve the original layout while significantly improving structural strength.
Project planners expect the reconstructed bridge to remain operational for at least 40 to 50 years. Officials believe the upgraded structure will provide safer and more reliable transportation for residents traveling between Tulungagung and Trenggalek.