The bridge leading to Palabuhanratu in Sukabumi District was severed due to a landslide caused by the overflow of the Cidadap River on Thursday, March 6, 2025. The bridge, known as Jembatan Bojongkopo, was impassable to both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles, as reported by the Sukabumi Police Traffic Unit. The incident prompted authorities to redirect traffic through Cikidang Road, urging commuters to use alternative routes to reach their destinations safely.
Bridge Collapse and Traffic Disruption
The disruption of the Bojongkopo Bridge was confirmed by Kasatlantas Polres Sukabumi, AKP Arif Saepul Haris, who expressed concern over the impact on local commuters. The bridge collapse was attributed to the surging waters of the Cidadap River, which eroded the bridge’s foundation, rendering it unsafe for travel. Iptu Aah Saepul Rohman, the Public Relations Officer of the Sukabumi Police Department, explained that the overflowing river likely caused the erosion of the bridge’s supports, leading to its collapse.
As a seasoned journalist, I have covered numerous natural disasters, but the devastation caused by the recent landslides and floods in Sukabumi is truly heartbreaking. The impact on the local community is profound, with families displaced and lives lost. It serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of disaster preparedness.
Widespread Disasters and Humanitarian Response
The recent floods and landslides in Sukabumi have affected 17 districts, with the Badan Penanggulangan Bencana Daerah (BPBD) Jawa Barat reporting significant damage across the region. Extreme weather conditions and heavy rainfall have been cited as the primary causes of the disasters, leading to widespread destruction in the area. Authorities have mobilized emergency response teams to assist those affected and mitigate further risks to public safety.
Bambang Imanudin, the Director of Emergency and Logistics at BPBD Jabar, provided insight into the scale of the disaster, revealing that 204 individuals have been impacted, with 159 seeking refuge in temporary shelters. Tragically, one fatality has been confirmed in Simpenan District, while seven individuals remain missing in various locations. The search and rescue efforts are ongoing, with emergency responders working tirelessly to locate the missing individuals and provide support to those in need.
In times of crisis, communities often come together to support one another and rebuild in the face of adversity. The resilience of the people of Sukabumi is a testament to their strength and unity in the face of natural disasters. As we reflect on the challenges ahead, let us remember the importance of solidarity and compassion in times of need.
