TULUNGAGUNG – Motorcyclists in Tulungagung continue risking their safety by crossing the damaged Junjung Bridge. Iron barriers still block access for larger vehicles at the site.
The bridge in Junjung village, Sumbergempol district, has remained partially closed for about six months. Structural damage struck the middle section and forced authorities to limit access.
Even so, narrow gaps along the bridge still allow motorcycles to pass every day. Many residents continue using the damaged route because they want to avoid long detours that disrupt daily activities and increase travel time.
The situation has sparked growing concern because repair work has yet to begin. Authorities initially planned to start the project in March, but construction crews and heavy equipment have still not arrived at the site.
For local residents, the bridge remains an important connection for economic activity, school access, and religious education. The damaged route also links several nearby communities that rely on the bridge for daily transportation.
Basori, a nearby resident who regularly monitors conditions around the bridge, criticized the unclear timeline for repairs. He said residents have waited months without seeing progress from the government.
“The bridge has been blocked for six months. Officials said construction would start in March, but nothing has happened until now,” he said.
Basori explained that many residents continue crossing the damaged bridge because alternative roads take much longer. He also pointed to the difficulties faced by children who travel for evening religious classes.
“Children who attend afternoon Quran lessons would need to travel very far if they had to take the longer route,” Basori added.
Khasanah, a motorcyclist who frequently uses the bridge, admitted she still chooses the risky crossing because it saves time and distance. According to her, the longer route feels inefficient for residents who travel daily.
“I often pass through here on my motorcycle because the detour is too far and takes too much time,” she said.
Another resident, Ida, said she feels anxious every time she rides across the remaining concrete structure. She urged local authorities to provide clear information about the repair schedule instead of leaving the bridge closed without certainty.
“We hope the government repairs it soon. Don’t just block the bridge without giving residents clear information about when normal access will return,” Ida said.
Despite safety concerns, motorcycles continue lining up every day to squeeze through the remaining space on the damaged bridge. Residents now hope the government will fulfill its promise to repair the bridge this year so the route can safely reopen for all vehicles.