Indonesian Army Chief of Staff Inaugurates Bailey Bridge Across Bireuen-Takengon.
The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army (TNI), General Maruli Simanjuntak, inaugurated the Bailey Bridge in Umah Besi Village, Gajah Putih District, Bener Meriah, on Thursday (January 8, 2026). This bridge was built as a quick solution to restore access to the Takengon-Bireuen national highway, which was completely cut off due to flash floods and landslides.
The bridge construction was carried out by the Natural Disaster Management Task Force (Satgas Gulbencal) from Yonzipur 5/BW. Personnel worked quickly against the clock to reconnect the transportation network in the area.
A solemn atmosphere enveloped the inauguration ceremony, amidst light rain that drenched Gajah Putih District. General Maruli, accompanied by the Iskandar Muda Military Commander, the Lilawangsa Military Commander, and the Acting Regent of Bener Meriah, performed the Peusijuek ceremony with local traditional leaders.
This traditional ritual was performed as a form of gratitude and prayer for the safety and smooth use of this vital bridge.
"This bridge is a tangible manifestation of the Indonesian Army's presence amidst the people's hardship. We are here not only to build the physical structure, but also to ensure that the social and economic activities of the people return to normal," said General Maruli.
General Maruli emphasized that the construction of this bridge was the Indonesian Army's swift response to restoring infrastructure and accelerating the community's economic growth. Meanwhile, the Regent of Bener Meriah, Ir. Tagore Abubakar, expressed his highest appreciation for the TNI's dedication.
He called the Gulbencal Task Force's hard work a heroic act that restored the community's hope. "The local government and the community are very grateful. Synergy between the Indonesian Army and the local government is key. Without this bridge, logistics distribution and community mobilization would continue to be hampered," he said.
With the official opening of the Bailey Bridge, transportation access has now returned to normal. General Maruli's presence at Umah Besi is concrete proof that the unity of the TNI and the people is not just a slogan, but a concrete action in disaster areas for the welfare of the community.
