TRENGGALEK – Tugu Dam alternative route has opened after a landslide shut down the main Trenggalek-Ponorogo road, disrupting traffic between the two regencies. As a result, authorities redirected vehicles to prevent further risk while cleanup efforts continue.

Officials closed the primary road connection earlier due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, heavy debris still blocks parts of the affected section. Therefore, local authorities moved quickly to create a temporary traffic solution.

Maulana Septian, Head of the Tugu Dam Management Unit (UPB) in Trenggalek, said the decision followed coordination among district officials and dam authorities. According to him, the move aimed to maintain mobility while prioritizing public safety.

“Due to the landslide affecting the main road, local officials coordinated with us to implement traffic engineering through the dam area,” Maulana said.

Subsequently, authorities opened the Tugu Dam alternative route at 10:40 a.m. after confirming that limited vehicle types could pass safely. Traffic from Trenggalek toward Ponorogo now flows through the dam area under controlled supervision.

However, officials applied a different scheme for vehicles coming from the opposite direction. Instead of using the dam road, drivers from Ponorogo to Trenggalek must pass through Kampung Baru in Keser Hamlet, Nglinggis Village. This measure aims to prevent bottlenecks in a single location.

Authorities said the traffic arrangement remains situational. In other words, officers may adjust the flow depending on congestion levels and field conditions.

Although the route is open, not all vehicles can use the Tugu Dam alternative route. The road features steep gradients and sharp bends, which increase the risk for heavy transport.

For that reason, officials only allow small vehicles and unloaded trucks to pass through the dam area. Fully loaded trucks and large vehicles must take other designated routes.

“We did not open the route without careful consideration. The terrain is steep and has sharp curves. Only small vehicles and unloaded trucks are allowed to pass,” Maulana explained.

At the same time, landslide removal efforts continue on the main Trenggalek-Ponorogo road. Authorities hope crews will clear the debris soon so normal traffic can resume.

Officials urge motorists to follow instructions and remain cautious. Ultimately, safety remains the top priority while recovery work progresses.