Jakarta. The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of suspension bridges to improve connectivity in remote and geographically challenging areas. The Public Works Ministry has allocated Rp 630 billion (approximately $38.7 million) for the construction of 63 suspension bridges across the country in 2026.

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo said on Tuesday that these bridges are vital for improving accessibility for communities in isolated regions, where residents often rely on long, inefficient detours due to the lack of direct routes.

“These suspension bridges are expected to bring tangible benefits by easing daily activities, particularly in supporting economic, educational, and public service access,” Dody said in a written statement.

The program is part of a broader push for equitable development and rural connectivity, helping link villages and subdistricts to local markets and regional hubs. The bridges will facilitate the transportation of agricultural products and enable easier movement for farmers and traders, he added.

In addition to economic benefits, the bridges will serve as critical infrastructure for accessing schools, government offices, and healthcare services in areas divided by rivers, ravines, or steep terrain.

The selection of the 63 sites for 2026 was based on technical studies and field surveys, taking into account factors such as economic impact, level of isolation, transport accessibility, and engineering feasibility. The ministry has not yet disclosed the specific regions where the bridges will be built.

“Typically, these suspension bridges span 30 to 200 meters in length and are approximately 1.8 meters wide, depending on the site conditions,” Dody explained.

The government is also currently building 50 suspension bridges in 2025, with several already completed.