Bridge Still Damaged, Residents Cross Batang Belimbing River by Motorcycle

Residents in Kampung Tanjung, Kuranji, Padang, West Sumatra, are resorting to crossing the Batang Belimbing River on motorcycles as a temporary measure. This unusual river crossing is necessary because the main bridge providing access to the area is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

The bridge sustained damage from a disaster that struck the region in November 2025. The Padang City government has initiated a five-month rehabilitation and reconstruction project for the bridge, with an allocated budget of Rp8.8 billion. While the bridge repair is underway, residents find the alternative routes to be significantly longer, making the river crossing a more practical, albeit unconventional, solution.

Aerial photos show heavy machinery at work on the bridge, indicating the progress of the reconstruction efforts. The situation highlights the community's resilience and adaptation in the face of infrastructure challenges. The temporary river crossing is expected to continue until the bridge is fully repaired and operational again, restoring normal access for the residents.