Indonesia Restores Key Transportation Routes After Severe Floods and Landslides in Aceh
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Public Works and Housing (PUPR) Minister Dody Hanggodo announced on Friday that several strategic road networks have been successfully reopened following the widespread floods and landslides that struck Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Minister Dody stressed that restoring transportation access remains the government’s foremost priority before rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts move forward. “Following the floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, the reopening of transportation routes remains the government’s main priority,” he said in an official statement.
According to reports from the Aceh National Road Implementation Center (BPJN), Directorate General of Highways (Ditjen Bina Marga), as of December 3, 2025, several previously severed road segments have now been reconnected and reopened to traffic.
Key Road Sections Reopened
- Banda Aceh–Meureudu: Fully reconnected and operational.
- Kota Lhokseumawe–Kota Langsa border: Passable; sediment-clearing operations continue.
- Kota Langsa–Kota Kuala Simpang: Cleared of flood sediment and reopened.
- Kota Kuala Simpang–Batas Provinsi Sumatera Utara: Accessible to all types of vehicles, with ongoing clearing works.
- Kota Kutacane–Batas Provinsi Sumatera Utara: Now passable.
- Genting Gerbang–Celala–Batas Aceh Tengah/Nagan Raya: Reconnected; currently accessible for two-wheelers.
- Simpang Uning–Uwaq–Blangkejeren: Reopened for two-wheel vehicles, and preparations are underway to allow passage for four-wheel vehicles.
River Basin Agency Supports Disaster Response
The Sumatra I River Basin Agency (BWS) has also joined the post-disaster efforts in Aceh Tamiang Regency. Access to the region has been restored to facilitate the distribution of relief supplies and ensure residents can reach essential services.
BWS Sumatra I deployed two heavy machines to remove mud and debris from main roads and drainage systems. The agency has also distributed basic food assistance to affected communities.
Authorities emphasized that reopening access routes is critical for emergency aid distribution and for stabilizing mobility in the disaster-hit regions.
