Barito Utara Government Supports Garuda Bridge To Open Rural Access

Saputra Berry    Monday, April 06, 2026    Comment   

Barito Utara Government Supports Garuda Bridge To Open Rural Access

Barito Utara Government supports construction of Garuda Bridge in Liang Buah Village to improve public access and accelerate regional development.

BARITO UTARA – The Barito Utara Regency Government in Central Kalimantan has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating regional development by supporting the construction of the Garuda Suspension Bridge in Liang Buah Village, Teweh Baru District.

The bridge is expected to become a practical solution for residents who have long faced transportation challenges, particularly when accessing public services and economic centers.

Deputy Regent of Barito Utara, Felix Sonadie Y Tingan, said the Garuda Bridge construction is part of a national government program designed to strengthen inter-regional connectivity.

“The Garuda Bridge, built as part of a central government program, is expected to serve as a vital connection between regions, especially for communities that still face transportation limitations,” Felix said during the groundbreaking ceremony in Liang Buah Village on Monday.

A Symbol Of Commitment To Equal Development

According to Felix, infrastructure development remains a top priority in driving regional progress. This commitment is reflected in the groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction of the Garuda Bridge, which will cross the Teweh River, a tributary of the Barito River.

He emphasized that the groundbreaking ceremony was not merely symbolic but represented a shared commitment to improving connectivity in areas that were previously difficult to access.

“With the presence of the Garuda Bridge, we hope to make community mobility easier, facilitate the distribution of goods and services, and create new economic opportunities for residents in the surrounding areas,” he said.

The regional government also expressed appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to the planning and implementation stages of the project.

Felix reminded project contractors to maintain construction quality standards, prioritize workplace safety, and complete the project according to schedule.

Improving Access To Education And Healthcare

Commander of Military District Command (Kodim) 1013 Muara Teweh, Lt. Col. Inf. Nurwahid, emphasized the strategic importance of the Garuda Bridge construction for local communities.

He explained that the bridge would significantly improve accessibility in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and economic activities.

“With this bridge, residents will find it easier to reach public facilities such as schools, markets, and healthcare centers,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the project would improve the welfare of residents in Liang Buah Village and nearby areas while accelerating local economic growth.

Supporting Local Economy And Reducing Isolation

The Garuda Bridge construction is expected to become a strategic step toward reducing regional isolation in Barito Utara.

In addition to improving mobility, the bridge is projected to open new business opportunities, streamline the distribution of agricultural products, and increase trade activity between regions.

“With the start of Garuda Bridge construction, we hope there will be no more isolated areas, and all residents can benefit equally from development,” Nurwahid added.

Infrastructure development such as this bridge plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable and equitable development across rural areas.

FAQ

1. What is the main function of the Garuda Bridge?
The Garuda Bridge is designed to connect regions, making transportation easier and improving access to public services and economic activities.

2. Where is the Garuda Bridge being built?
The bridge is being constructed in Liang Buah Village, Teweh Baru District, Barito Utara Regency, crossing the Teweh River.

3. Who supports the Garuda Bridge construction?
The project is supported by the Barito Utara Government, central government programs, and related institutions including the military.

4. What benefits will residents receive from the bridge?
Residents will gain easier access to education, healthcare, trade, and other public services.

5. Why is the bridge considered important?
Because several areas remain isolated, and the bridge will help improve connectivity and promote balanced regional development.

SAR Team Finds Two Boat Accident Victims In Barito River After Two Days Search

Saputra Berry    Monday, April 06, 2026    Comment   

SAR Team Finds Two Boat Accident Victims In Barito River After Two Days Search

Joint SAR team recovered two victims from the Mitra Jaya V boat accident in the Barito River after two days of searching. The rescue operation has officially been concluded.

After two days of intensive searching, a joint Search and Rescue (SAR) team successfully located two victims of a boat accident in the Barito River, near the dock of PT Multipersada Gatra Megah (MPG) in Muara Teweh, Barito Utara Regency, Central Kalimantan.

Head of the Palangka Raya SAR Office, AA Ketut Alit Supartana, confirmed that all victims had been found and the search operation was officially concluded.

“Both victims have been found and the SAR operation has been declared complete,” Alit said in Muara Teweh on Monday.

Chronology Of The Mitra Jaya V Boat Accident

The accident occurred on Saturday night, April 4, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m. local time. At the time, the Mitra Jaya V boat was attempting to dock at the PT MPG port.

Authorities suspect that a collision occurred during the docking process. As a result of the impact, a police officer and one crew member fell into the Barito River.

Limited visibility at night and strong river currents posed significant challenges for rescuers during the search operation.

First Victim Found Two Kilometers From Initial Location

The first victim was identified as Bripda Vikma Setiawan, a resident of Veteran Street, Margo Rukun Alley, Beriwit Village, Murung District, Murung Raya Regency.

He was found at approximately 8:31 a.m., about two kilometers from the initial accident site.

According to the Head of the Palangka Raya SAR Office, the victim was found floating on the surface of the river.

“The first victim was found floating and immediately evacuated before being handed over to the family,” Alit explained.

Second Victim Found Near Accident Site

Shortly after the first recovery, the SAR team located the second victim, identified as Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25).

He was a crew member originally from Rokirole Village, Palue District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

The second victim was found approximately 500 meters from the accident site.

After recovery, the victim was transported to the nearest hospital for further handling.

“The second victim was found not far from the accident location and was immediately evacuated to the hospital,” he stated.

Both victims were found deceased after intensive search efforts conducted by the joint SAR team.

Search Operation Involved Multiple Agencies

The rescue operation involved several agencies working together in coordinated efforts on the ground.

The joint team included:

• Palangka Raya SAR Office

• Police personnel

• Barito Utara Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD)

• Local community members

This collaborative effort played a crucial role in the successful recovery of both victims.

With all victims recovered, the SAR operation was officially declared complete, and all personnel were withdrawn from the site.

“We appreciate all SAR personnel who worked tirelessly in the field until the victims were successfully recovered,” said AA Ketut Alit Supartana.

Maritime Safety Measures Need Greater Attention

This incident highlights the importance of strict safety procedures during docking operations, especially in river ports.

Proper safety supervision, disciplined operational standards, and crew readiness are key factors in preventing similar incidents in the future.

Environmental factors such as river currents, weather conditions, and lighting around docking areas should also receive careful attention.

FAQ

1. Where did the boat accident occur?
The accident took place in the Barito River near the PT Multipersada Gatra Megah dock in Muara Teweh, Barito Utara, Central Kalimantan.

2. When did the Mitra Jaya V accident happen?
The incident occurred on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at approximately 9:00 p.m.

3. Who were the victims?
The victims were Bripda Vikma Setiawan and Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25), a crew member of the vessel.

4. How long did the search operation last?
The search lasted for two days before both victims were found.

5. Has the SAR operation ended?
Yes. The SAR operation has officially been concluded after both victims were recovered.

Bripda Vikma Setiawan Found Dead After Drowning In Barito River

Saputra Berry    Monday, April 06, 2026    Comment   

Bripda Vikma Setiawan Found Dead After Drowning In Barito River

Bripda Vikma Setiawan was found dead after drowning in the Barito River, Muara Teweh. Another victim remains missing as joint teams continue the search operation.

Muara Teweh — A joint search team has successfully located one of the two victims who drowned in the Barito River near the dock of PT Multipersada Gatra Megah (MPG) in Muara Teweh, Barito Utara Regency, Central Kalimantan.

The victim identified as Bripda Vikma Setiawan (22), a police officer, was previously reported missing while carrying out monitoring duties at the dock area.

Head of Emergency and Logistics Division of the Barito Utara Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Rizali Hadi, confirmed that the victim was found on Monday morning at approximately 8:31 a.m. local time.

“The victim, Vikma Setiawan, was found this morning at around 8:31 a.m., approximately two kilometers from the initial incident location. The body has been successfully evacuated by the joint team,” Rizali said in Muara Teweh.

Chronology Of The Barito River Drowning Incident

The tragic incident began when Bripda Vikma Setiawan was conducting supervision on a barge that was about to dock at PT MPG’s pier.

The barge was scheduled to carry out loading activities involving Crude Palm Oil (CPO). During the operation, the victim reportedly fell into the river and drowned.

The officer was known to reside at Veteran Street, Gang Margo RT 005 RW 002, Beriwit Village, Murung District, Murung Raya Regency.

The incident occurred on Saturday night (April 4) and immediately triggered a search and rescue operation involving multiple agencies.

One Crew Member Still Missing

Aside from Bripda Vikma Setiawan, another victim remains missing as of the latest update.

The second victim has been identified as Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25), a crew member (ABK) from Rokirole Village RT 005 RW 002, Palue District, Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

According to Rizali Hadi, the search operation for the second victim is still ongoing, with teams expanding the search radius around the incident site.

“The search for the remaining victim will continue with an expanded search area around the incident location,” he stated.

Joint Teams Continue River Search Operations

The search effort involves multiple agencies, including BPBD, Water Police (Polairud), Fire Department (Damkar), and local volunteers.

Search teams are conducting river sweeps using inflatable boats and specialized water search equipment in hopes of locating the second victim as soon as possible.

Strong river currents have been cited as one of the major challenges during the ongoing search mission.

Safety Reminder For River And Dock Operations

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety precautions for workers and officers operating near rivers or dock facilities.

The use of personal protective equipment, particularly life jackets, along with strict safety protocols, is essential to minimize the risk of similar accidents in the future.

FAQ

Who was the victim found in the Barito River?

The victim was Bripda Vikma Setiawan (22), a police officer reported missing during duty.

When was the victim found?

The victim was found on Monday morning at approximately 8:31 a.m.

Where did the drowning incident occur?

The incident took place in the Barito River near the dock of PT Multipersada Gatra Megah (MPG), Muara Teweh.

Is another victim still missing?

Yes. Another victim, Aleksandro Brianonggasa (25), a crew member, remains missing.

Which agencies are involved in the search?

The operation involves BPBD, Water Police (Polairud), Fire Department, and local volunteers.

BPBD Barito Utara Secures Tourist Spots During Eid Holiday 2026

Ria Sartika    Sunday, March 22, 2026    Comment   

BPBD Barito Utara Secures Tourist Spots During Eid Holiday 2026

BPBD Barito Utara and joint teams secure major tourist destinations during the 2026 Eid holiday to ensure visitor safety and comfort.

Muara Teweh – The 2026 Eid holiday has become a special moment for families to travel and enjoy time together. To ensure safety and comfort, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Barito Utara has stepped up security measures at several top tourist destinations.

Head of Emergency and Logistics Division (Darlog) BPBD Barito Utara, Rizali Hadi, stated that security operations are being intensified throughout the Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri holiday period, especially as visitor numbers continue to rise.

“Security measures are being carried out during the Eid holiday, particularly as tourist visits increase at three main destinations,” he said in Muara Teweh on Sunday.

The main focus areas include DAM Trinsing and Panglima Batur Campground (Buper) in South Teweh District, as well as Jantur Doyam Waterfall located at Kilometer 18 on the Muara Teweh–Puruk Cahu national road in West Lahei District.

These efforts are being carried out collaboratively with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), National Police (Polri), village authorities, and the Department of Culture, Tourism, Youth, and Sports (Disbudparpora).

Rizali emphasized that the presence of officers is not only for security purposes but also to provide guidance and safety reminders to visitors.

“We urge all visitors to remain cautious, maintain order, and follow instructions from officers on site,” he added.

These three tourist destinations are known as major attractions in Barito Utara, especially during holiday seasons, which explains the significant increase in visitors.

Meanwhile, Head of Disbudparpora Barito Utara, Annisa Cahyawati, confirmed that tourist sites managed by the local government have been crowded since the first and second days of Eid.

“Thankfully, all tourism activities have been running smoothly, safely, and orderly,” she said.

Visitors are not only coming from Muara Teweh but also from nearby regions and neighboring districts, taking advantage of the holiday period.

To enhance visitor experience, Disbudparpora has prepared supporting facilities, including service posts at several tourist locations. Safety reminders have also been delivered through banners and pamphlets installed across the sites.

Through strong inter-agency collaboration, local authorities hope that the Eid holiday tourism activities will continue to run safely, orderly, and smoothly, allowing people to enjoy their vacation with peace of mind.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Which tourist destinations are secured during Eid 2026?
DAM Trinsing, Panglima Batur Campground, and Jantur Doyam Waterfall.

2. Who is involved in the security operations?
BPBD, TNI, Polri, village officials, and Disbudparpora.

3. Why is security increased during Eid holidays?
Due to a significant rise in tourist visits during the holiday period.

4. Are tourist destinations in Barito Utara safe to visit?
Yes, all tourism activities have been reported safe, orderly, and running smoothly.

5. What advice is given to visitors?
Visitors are encouraged to stay cautious, follow rules, and obey instructions from officers.