inp.polri.go.id - Palembang. The South Sumatra Regional Police, along with its ranks, are building 81 Merah Putih Bridges across various regions of South Sumatra Province to support community activities.

The construction is also in celebration of the 81st Anniversary of Indonesian Independence.

South Sumatra Regional Police Chief Inspector General Sandi Nugroho stated that the inauguration is part of the Indonesian National Police (INP)'s Red and White Bridge Inauguration, which was held centrally via video conference with the President of the Republic of Indonesia and the INP Chief on Thursday (8/13/2026).

He explained that in South Sumatra, one of the crossing facilities inaugurated is located in Lalang Village, Sembawa District, Banyuasin Regency. The 14-meter-long and 1.5-meter-wide bridge directly benefits approximately 900 local residents.

"This infrastructure provides a solution for people who previously had to take a longer route. The presence of the Merah Putih Bridge has reduced the travel distance by approximately 4.5 kilometers and saved travel time by up to 25 minutes," he said in Palembang on Thursday (8/13/2026).

He emphasized that infrastructure development that addresses the community's basic needs is a manifestation of the police's presence, the benefits of which can be directly felt. He stated that the spirit of independence is realized through concrete steps that can improve the quality of life for the community, not just ceremonial activities.

Based on recapitulation data from the South Sumatra Regional Police and its affiliated police/city police, this program covers 81 bridges, of which 74 have been completed and 7 are still under construction.

The completed facilities now benefit approximately 100,900 people. Once all 81 bridges are completed, the total beneficiary population in South Sumatra is projected to reach 111,600.

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