TRENGGALEK – Trenggalek Bus Route Diversion has begun following the full closure of a bridge in Gondang District, Tulungagung Regency, a key route for intercity bus services connecting Trenggalek with Surabaya and Malang. The closure has forced transport authorities to adjust routes and schedules while assessing additional alternatives for smaller buses.
Since the bridge shut down on June 2, buses operating from Type A Surodakan Terminal in Trenggalek have had to follow new travel arrangements. Officials have already determined a diversion route for large buses, while they continue to evaluate another option for smaller vehicles.
Devi Ariandi, Supervisor of Services at Type A Surodakan Terminal, said authorities received information about a possible route linking Malasan Village and Gempolan Village in Pakel District, Tulungagung.
“For smaller buses, we received information that they could travel through the road connecting Malasan Village and Gempolan Village. However, we are still checking the actual condition of the route,” Devi said.
Transport officials have already finalized an alternative route for larger buses. Those vehicles now travel through the Durenan intersection before continuing south toward Bandung District, Campurdarat, and Boyolangu in Tulungagung Regency.
According to Devi, vehicle size played a major role in that decision. Large buses require wider roads and more space to maneuver safely, making the Campurdarat route the most suitable option.
“Large buses have greater length and width dimensions, so we direct them through Campurdarat because the road conditions are more suitable. We also want to prevent congestion from blocking traffic flow,” he explained.
The route changes have also affected bus operations at the terminal. To compensate for longer travel times, terminal management moved departure schedules forward by one hour.
The new schedule took effect on Tuesday morning, with departures beginning at 6 a.m. local time. Officials expect the adjustment to help buses arrive on schedule at their destination terminals despite the longer journeys.
“We advanced departures by one hour so buses can still reach their destination terminals on time and avoid delays caused by longer travel distances,” Devi said.
Meanwhile, terminal authorities continue coordinating with the Trenggalek Traffic Police to maintain travel safety during the diversion period. The cooperation includes vehicle inspections, driver health checks, and road safety awareness programs.
“We routinely coordinate with traffic police for vehicle inspections, safety-driving education, and driver health examinations,” Devi added.
Despite the route changes and schedule adjustments, terminal operations continue to run normally. Authorities have urged passengers and drivers to remain patient and prioritize safety while traveling through the temporary diversion routes.
“Our hope is that travel remains smooth and safe despite the route changes. Safety remains our top priority,” Devi said.