Suramadu Bridge | Surabaya

Suramadu Bridge (Jembatan Suramadu)

The Suramadu Bridge, officially known as the Surabaya-Madura Bridge, is the longest bridge in Indonesia and a key infrastructural landmark. It spans the Madura Strait, connecting Surabaya, the capital city of East Java, with Bangkalan on Madura Island. It serves as a critical link for transportation, economic growth, and tourism between the two regions.

Overview

• Name: Suramadu Bridge (Jembatan Suramadu).
• Location: Connects Surabaya, East Java, to Madura Island.
• Length: 5.4 kilometers (3.4 miles), making it the longest bridge in Indonesia.
• Type: Cable-stayed bridge with approach spans.
• Opened: June 10, 2009, inaugurated by then-President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.
• Purpose: Facilitates economic integration, reduces travel time, and promotes development on Madura Island.

Key Features

1. Structure and Design

The Suramadu Bridge consists of three main sections:

• Causeways: Located at both ends of the bridge to transition traffic from land to the main bridge.
• Approach Bridges: Connect the causeways to the main bridge.
• Cable-Stayed Main Bridge: The central and most iconic part of the bridge, featuring high pylons and cables to support the span over the shipping lanes of the Madura Strait.

The bridge has four lanes for vehicles (two in each direction) and two motorcycle lanes on either side.

2. Engineering and Construction

• The bridge was constructed by a consortium of Indonesian and international contractors, including contributions from China and South Korea.
• It features advanced engineering to withstand the challenges of its location, including strong winds and seismic activity.
• The materials used ensure durability against the corrosive environment of the saltwater strait.

Economic and Social Significance

Economic Integration:

• Prior to the bridge's construction, access to Madura Island was only possible via ferries, which were time-consuming and weather-dependent.
• The Suramadu Bridge has drastically reduced travel time between Surabaya and Madura from 30 minutes by ferry to less than 10 minutes by road, facilitating faster movement of goods and people.

Development of Madura Island:

• The bridge is part of efforts to boost the economic growth of Madura, which has traditionally been less developed compared to Surabaya and other parts of Java.
• It has encouraged investment in infrastructure, tourism, and industries such as agriculture and fisheries.

Tourism:

• The bridge itself has become a tourist attraction, especially at night when it is lit up with colorful lights.
• It has increased accessibility to Madura’s cultural sites, beaches, and culinary delights.

Transportation Hub:

• The bridge plays a vital role in regional connectivity, making it easier for people and businesses to travel between Java and Madura.

Visiting Suramadu Bridge

Toll-Free Access:

• In 2018, the Indonesian government abolished toll fees for the Suramadu Bridge to further encourage economic activity and ease the burden on commuters.

Scenic Views:

• The bridge offers stunning views of the Madura Strait, especially at sunrise and sunset.
• Many visitors stop to take photos, particularly at the Surabaya end, where there are parking areas and observation points.

Nighttime Attraction:

• At night, the bridge is illuminated with colorful LED lights, making it a spectacular sight.

Nearby Attractions:

• In Surabaya: Kenjeran Beach, Heroes Monument (Tugu Pahlawan), and Surabaya North Quay.
• In Madura: Bukit Jaddih (limestone hills), Sumenep Palace, and the traditional bull races (Karapan Sapi).

Interesting Facts

• Longest Bridge in Indonesia: Its length of 5.4 kilometers makes it the longest bridge in the country.
• Economic Lifeline: It has transformed the Madura Strait from a barrier into a gateway, fostering development on both sides.
• Environmental Challenges: Engineers faced significant challenges in constructing the bridge due to the strong currents, salinity, and seismic risks of the area.

How to Get There

• From Surabaya:
  • The Suramadu Bridge is easily accessible by car or motorcycle. It starts near the Kenjeran area in the northeastern part of the city.
• From Madura:
  • The bridge connects to the town of Bangkalan, which serves as a gateway to explore the rest of Madura Island.

Conclusion

The Suramadu Bridge is more than just a physical connection between two regions—it’s a symbol of progress and unity, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange between Java and Madura Island. Whether you're a traveler interested in engineering marvels, a tourist exploring local culture, or a commuter enjoying its convenience, the bridge is a landmark worth experiencing.