Fako: SDO Calls for Urgent Reconstruction of 116-Year-Old Collapsing Idenau Bridge

The Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Fako Division in the South West Region, Engelbert Viang Mekala, has called for the urgent rehabilitation or complete reconstruction of the 116-year-old Idenau Bridge, warning that the ageing structure can no longer safely serve the thousands of residents, businesses and institutions that rely on it.

The historic bridge has become a major safety hazard following its latest partial collapse, which has brought vehicular traffic to a standstill. The disruption has cut off several communities, including CDC plantations, severely affecting trade, agriculture and the movement of people and goods across the area.

With vehicles unable to cross, residents are now forced to use the damaged bridge on foot or by motorcycle, while economic activities continue to suffer.

During an inspection visit to the site, the SDO expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the bridge, noting that repeated repairs were no longer sufficient to keep the ageing infrastructure operational.

“To be honest, this bridge requires urgent government intervention, either through complete rehabilitation or total reconstruction. Although the CDC has repeatedly repaired the bridge over the past two years, including welding and reinforcing weakened sections, the century-old structure has continued to deteriorate as new portions collapse,” he said.

Following the inspection, Mr. Viang Mekala, accompanied by the Divisional Delegate of Public Works and other administrative officials, chaired a crisis meeting at the Idenau Subdivisional Officer’s office. The meeting brought together the CDC General Manager and other stakeholders to identify an alternative crossing that could temporarily restore movement while proposals for a permanent solution are forwarded to the government.

“Our priority is to identify an alternative route that can temporarily restore movement while proposals for a lasting solution are transmitted to the competent authorities,” the SDO added.

For the thousands of residents whose livelihoods depend on the historic crossing, the hope is that swift government intervention will restore connectivity before the deteriorating bridge claims more than economic losses or lives.