Banjarmasin Revises Cusa Bridge Design, Targets Completion for Public Use
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| Banjarmasin revises Cusa Bridge design to fix access road issues. Project aims to ensure safety and open soon for public use. |
The Banjarmasin city government is pushing forward with the completion of the Cemara Ujung–Sungai Andai Bridge, better known as the Cusa Bridge, located in North Banjarmasin.
But here’s the situation—while the main bridge structure was actually completed by the end of 2025, the bridge still can’t be used by the public.
The issue? The access road, or what’s known as the “oprit.”
Head of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office (PUPR), Suri Sudarmadiyah, said the city is now preparing design changes to finalize construction on that critical section.
Why Does the Design Need to Be Revised?
According to Suri, the redesign isn’t random. It’s necessary due to construction adjustments, especially on the riverbank side of the bridge.
This move also follows a compliance audit conducted by the Banjarmasin City Inspectorate, based on a request from the local prosecutor’s office.
So basically, this isn’t just a technical tweak—it’s also about making sure everything meets legal and engineering standards.
“These design changes are necessary to ensure the bridge matches actual field conditions, especially near the riverbanks,” Suri explained.
Experts Involved, Full Technical Review Underway
The city isn’t taking any shortcuts here. The Public Works Office has involved experts to ensure the bridge is safe and reliable.
A geotechnical study had already been carried out by academics from Lambung Mangkurat University. However, based on audit recommendations, the original project planner has been asked to conduct a full design review.
The updated study includes:
Hydraulic analysis
Hydrology analysis
Riverbank erosion risk assessment
All of this is crucial to make sure the bridge can withstand environmental pressures and remain safe long-term.
Project Budget and Construction Phases
The Cusa Bridge project has been carried out in two phases:
2024: approximately IDR 21 billion
2025: approximately IDR 3.2 billion
In total, the project spans around IDR 24.2 billion.
The bridge itself stretches 260 meters, with a main span of 80 meters, and features a modern suspension bridge design.
A Key Solution to Traffic Congestion
This bridge is considered a major solution for traffic issues, especially in the Sungai Andai area.
With a population of around 30,000 people, the area currently relies on just one bridge for access to the city.
No surprise—traffic congestion has been a daily problem.
That’s why the Cusa Bridge, often referred to as Sungai Andai Bridge 2, is expected to significantly ease traffic flow once it’s operational.
What the City Hopes to Achieve
With the updated design and deeper technical studies, the city government hopes the project can move forward smoothly.
The goal isn’t just to finish construction—but to ensure the bridge is safe, durable, and fully functional for years to come.
FAQ
1. Why is the Cusa Bridge not open yet?
Because the access road (oprit) is not fully completed and requires design adjustments.
2. What is an “oprit”?
It’s the connecting road between the bridge and the main land road.
3. When will the bridge be completed?
There’s no confirmed date yet, as the project is still undergoing redesign and technical review.
4. What is the total project budget?
Around IDR 24.2 billion.
5. Why is this bridge important?
It will reduce traffic congestion and improve access for residents in Sungai Andai.
