Residents of Samarinda were startled by a serious incident involving the Mahulu Bridge early Tuesday morning. A coal-laden barge struck the bridge on December 23, 2025, at around 5:30 a.m. local time, just as the city was beginning its day.
The incident occurred when barge M80-1302, towed by tugboat KD2018 and operated by PT Dharmalancar Sejahtera, was passing beneath the Mahulu Bridge. During the maneuver, the barge collided with the bridge’s sixth pillar, raising public concerns about the safety and structural integrity of this vital crossing.
Responding to the incident, Alex Mailoa, Head of the Samarinda Branch of PT Dharmalancar Sejahtera, emphasized that the company is taking full responsibility. He stated that the company is prepared to take all necessary follow-up actions based on the evaluation results.
“From the start, we have made it clear that the company is responsible. Technically, the barge had been inspected and was deemed fit for operation. We are also open to on-site inspections if needed,” Alex said when met at Aston Hotel Samarinda on December 30, 2025.
Alex further explained that preliminary technical analysis indicates the impact did not directly hit the bridge’s main foundation pillar. Instead, the collision affected the fender, a protective structure designed to absorb impacts from passing vessels.
Even so, further assessments will continue to ensure there is no serious damage to the Mahulu Bridge. According to Alex, the company is ready to comply with all inspection processes and recommendations from authorities to ensure the safety of bridge users.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of strict oversight of river traffic, especially along crucial routes frequently used by large, heavily loaded vessels. For the people of Samarinda, maintaining the safety and reliability of the Mahulu Bridge remains a top priority so daily activities can continue safely and smoothly.
