Nusantara Toll Roads Project Seeks Ministry Support
In a bid to complete the construction of various toll road segments in Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara, located in East Kalimantan, the Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) has reached out to the Ministry of Public Works for support. The OIKN Head, Basuki Hadimuljono, revealed this development in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, emphasizing the challenges faced in securing funding due to the government’s budget-saving policy.
The Nusantara toll road project, crucial for enhancing connectivity and infrastructure in the region, is at risk of being impacted by the budget-saving measures. However, there is optimism that the completion deadline may be rescheduled to 2026 to ensure the project’s continuity. Currently, the progress of the 3A and 3B toll road segments stands at 60 percent completion, indicating steady advancement in the construction process.
Planned for completion by July 2025, the construction of the 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B toll road segments leading to Nusantara is on track. Notably, the elevated toll road segments, 1A and 1B, which will significantly reduce the distance between Balikpapan city and the new capital, have unique design features that incorporate an elevated road concept. Physical construction of these segments is set to commence this year, symbolizing a significant milestone in the project’s development.
The elevated toll road is strategically positioned to connect Balikpapan city’s Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport with Nusantara, running parallel to the Balikpapan-Samarinda Toll Road. This innovative design not only facilitates enhanced connectivity but also underscores the commitment to modern infrastructure development in the region.
Despite the promising progress, challenges remain in the form of land acquisition for the 1A toll road segment, situated within the city limits. Addressing this issue is crucial for the timely completion of the project, necessitating collaborative efforts from the Balikpapan city government and other stakeholders. The intricate process of land acquisition requires meticulous planning and execution to ensure seamless progress in the construction phase.
In a related development, the construction of the 1B toll road segment has already commenced, with the completion of land acquisition payments anticipated within the next two months. This signifies a significant step forward in the overall project timeline, reflecting the dedication and perseverance of all involved parties in overcoming obstacles and driving progress in infrastructure development.
Minister Dody’s recent endeavors to advance the IKN Garuda Palace and expedite the toll road opening by 2025 complement the ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and accessibility in the region. The collaborative approach adopted by various stakeholders underscores the shared commitment to realizing the vision of a well-connected and modern infrastructure network in Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara.
