The aim is to improve connectivity, reduce logistics costs and support the industrial and tourism sectors in the area. The construction of the approximately 7km of bridges would involve three separate packages: from Batam Island to Tanjung Sauh Island (about 2.1km); from Tanjung Sauh Island to Buau Island (about 4km); and from Buau Island to Bintan Island (about 900m).
“The construction is slated to start in 2020 based on the results of technical and economic feasibility studies,” said minister of public works and public housing Basuki Hadimuljono. Building the bridge could take three to four years. “At present, the Ministry of Public Works and Housing is preparing a feasibility study and detailed engineering design which are expected to be completed by the end of 2019,” he said.
The minister estimated that the project would cost about US$215 million to US$285 million, though stressed that the cost depends on the results of the detailed engineering design.
