GOVERNMENT OFFICIALLY DISMANTLING HAJI ENDANG BRIDGE? This is the Fate of the Bridge That Operate...

Summary

Haji Endang, a local entrepreneur from Karawang, built a vital bridge across the Citarum River in 2010 using his own funds. This bridge connected two isolated villages, aiding schoolchildren, workers, and farmers in crossing the dangerous river. Despite its success and the benefits it provided to over 10,000 daily users, the bridge now faces potential demolition due to lack of official permits. The conflict highlights the tension between local initiatives and government regulations, with Haji Endang willing to resolve the issue peacefully, but demanding a replacement before any action is taken.

Takeaways

• 😀 Haji Endang, a local resident from Karawang, built a vital bridge across the Citarum River using his personal funds, without government involvement or ceremonies.
• 😀 The bridge has served as a crucial link between two villages, helping children, factory workers, and farmers safely cross the dangerous river.
• 😀 The bridge, which was initially a temporary solution, became an essential part of the local economy, facilitating daily transportation for over 10,000 vehicles.
• 😀 Despite its importance, the bridge is now under threat of being dismantled due to lack of official government permits, sparking outrage among local residents.
• 😀 Haji Endang's decision to build the bridge stemmed from a request from a local leader, Haji Yusuf, who highlighted the dangers faced by villagers crossing the river.
• 😀 Initially, Haji Endang attempted to collaborate with the local government to build the bridge but was hindered by bureaucratic issues, leading him to fund the project himself.
• 😀 The bridge generates around Rp20 million in daily revenue, but Haji Endang reinvests most of it to cover operational costs, including employee wages and maintenance.
• 😀 Despite generating revenue, Haji Endang insists that the bridge was not a business venture but rather a community service to improve the lives of local residents.
• 😀 After 15 years of successful operation, the BBWS Citarum (a government agency) raised concerns about the bridge's lack of legal permits, threatening its removal.
• 😀 The controversy surrounding the bridge has sparked a broader debate about local initiatives and the role of government in providing essential infrastructure when needed.

Q & A

Why did Haji Endang decide to build the bridge in 2010?

Haji Endang built the bridge after noticing the difficulties faced by the people of two villages, separated by the Citarum River, who struggled to cross it. Children, factory workers, and farmers were risking their lives to cross the river daily.

What was the initial purpose of the bridge built by Haji Endang?

The bridge was initially meant to be an emergency access point, but it quickly became an essential part of the local infrastructure, connecting the two villages and facilitating economic activities.

How did the community initially react to Haji Endang's plan to build the bridge?

Many people were skeptical and doubted his intentions. There were comments and doubts from the local community about his ability to complete the project, but Haji Endang proceeded with his plan despite these challenges.

How was the bridge funded?

Haji Endang financed the construction of the bridge with his personal savings, including funds from his small business ventures and personal loans. He did not involve government funding or large contractors.

What is the significance of the bridge for the local community?

The bridge became a vital link for over 10,000 vehicles daily, including motorcycles and cars. It facilitated the movement of people, supported local businesses, and improved access for farmers to transport goods, thus becoming crucial for daily life and the local economy.

What legal issues are now surrounding the bridge?

After 15 years of operation, the Citarum River Basin Management Authority (BBWS) raised concerns about the bridge's lack of official permits and threatened to demolish it. They argued that it violated regulations about building in river zones without proper technical approvals.

How did the local people respond to the threat of the bridge's demolition?

The local community strongly opposed the demolition of the bridge. In protest, they removed the BBWS's warning banners and voiced their support for Haji Endang, highlighting the bridge's importance in their daily lives.

What is Haji Endang's stance on the legal issues concerning the bridge?

Haji Endang expressed willingness to resolve the legal issues and obtain the necessary permits as long as the bridge is not demolished without a replacement. He emphasized that the bridge had been serving the community well for 15 years and should not be dismantled.

How does Haji Endang view his role in building the bridge?

Haji Endang sees himself as a helper to the community, motivated by the need to improve the lives of local residents. He clarified that building the bridge was not for profit but out of a genuine desire to solve a local problem.

What sources of income does Haji Endang have to fund the bridge?

Haji Endang is a local entrepreneur involved in transport, logistics, agriculture, and small-scale property businesses. The funds for the bridge largely came from his savings and small business operations.