Suramadu Bridge, Cable-stayed bridge in Surabaya, Indonesia
Suramadu Bridge crosses the Madura Strait, linking the island of Java to the smaller neighboring island of Madura over a total length of more than five kilometers. Two tall towers support the roadway with cables, while the structure offers four lanes for cars and two additional lanes for motorcycles.
Work began in 2003 under President Megawati Soekarnoputri and continued for six years until the link opened to traffic. In June 2009, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono officially inaugurated the completed crossing.
The name Suramadu combines the first syllables of the two places linked across the strait. Motorcyclists use the dedicated outer lanes heavily, reflecting how motorbikes are one of the main forms of transport on Java.
Motorcyclists use the outer lanes and should be cautious in strong winds, as the roadway sits high above the water. The central lanes are reserved for cars, and traffic can become dense during rush hours.
The structure combines three different bridge types along its span, which is technically rare and results from the changing depths of the strait. Large vessels can pass beneath the central section, as the clearance above sea level leaves sufficient room.
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