inp.polri.go.id - Medan. The South Tapanuli Sub-regional advised drivers to take alternative routes following the collapse and landslide of a national road in Sipirok District. The damage disrupted transportation access connecting the Tapanuli region with Medan via Tarutung.
Head of Traffic Unit of South Tapanuli Sub-regional Police, First Police Inspector James Sihombing says that the collapsed road is in Aek Sulum Hamlet, Marsada Village.
"The road collapsed in Aek Sulum Hamlet, Marsada Village, precisely near the final waste disposal site (TPA)," said James in Tapsel, Sunday (10/18/2026).
For the time being, motorists are being directed to use alternative routes, including the Rantau Prapat crossing. Traffic diversions are in place until the road is declared safe to travel, as repairs are still underway.
The road damage reportedly occurred on Sunday (10/18/2026), around 6:00 p.m., or later. A truck was also reported to have been involved in an accident, believed to be related to the road condition. There were no fatalities in the incident.
Sipirok Sub-district Head Sahruddin Perwira added that access disruptions also occurred after the landslide in Purba Tua Village, Sipirok District. The location is on a national road that is said to be connected to the section previously cut off by the disaster in Marsada Village.
According to Sahruddin, heavy equipment is already at the site, but has not yet been able to enter to carry out repair work. The process is still pending the removal of electricity poles by PLN, as they are obstructing access for heavy equipment.
This series of road damages has further disrupted vital transportation routes connecting the Tapanuli region with several other areas in North Sumatra.
The police are reminding motorists to follow the directions of officers, use available alternative routes, and increase their vigilance while driving. This appeal is especially directed at residents planning to travel through the Sipirok area, given the reported heavy rainfall in the area.
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