Regent Bans Coal Trucks Operating Post-River Collapses In Lahat

PALEMBANG - The Regent of Lahat Regency, South Sumatra, Bursah Zarnubi, has banned coal transport trucks in the area from operating after the collapse of the Muara Lawai-Lahat Liaison Bridge.

"Coal transportation must be completely stopped before the hauling road is complete. I follow the governor's order to stop all coal transportation, if there is transportation, it must be dealt with because it clearly violates the rules," said Bursah when interviewed in Palembang, Saturday.

He also asked Dishub officers not to give permission to coal transport trucks who still want to pass around the scene.

"If Dishub officers give the opportunity for coal truck vehicles to pass. There is a punishment for sure. We will advance the inspectorate. If necessary, arrest, justice, send them to prison," he said.

The cessation of coal transportation, he said, resulted in the distribution of coal production to stop. This is because coal production is currently approximately 5 million tons from Lahat and 50 million tons from PT Bukit Asam, bringing the total to 55 million tons.

"So it will be able to decay by about 5-10 million tons for the year because coal trucks have been stopped," he explained.

In addition, he hopes that the National Road Implementation Center (BBPJN) will move quickly to report to the center for the construction of new bridges, because the bridge is urgently needed by the community.

However, it is possible that the road will be compensated by the company which made the bridge collapse.

"Yes, it can also be like a scheme to repair the Lalan bridge, the company should also be responsible. First, check first," said Bursah.