MaxFM, Waingapu – The construction process to build supporting facilities at Tanggedu Waterfall has been completed. Using the 2021 village’s development funding, the construction includes three shop units (sized 4×10 meters) and some gazebos.

It is expected that visitors can buy refreshments from the shops then use the nearby gazebos to relax while enjoying their snacks.

Toilets construction is near its completion. Similarly, the stairs used to get to the waterfall spot are also underway to finish. As for the garbage containers, the construction has reached the finishing phase.

A local public figure, Lukas Hering Humba (61) said that the construction of shops, gazebos, toilets, and stairs at Tanggedu waterfall is the attempt of the local municipality to provide visitors with convenience.

Lukas admitted that the initial effort to arrange the site was just begun in 2018 so there may be still some imperfections today. He said that there should be more improvements to the facilities to give a pleasant experience for the visitors.

“The track to reach the waterfall is pretty steep so it is difficult for the visitors, especially in the rainy season. So we built the stairs to ease the journey,” he said.

He added that the construction project included establishing garbage bins at some spots to keep the place clean. That way, the waterfall will attract more visitors.

“I’m afraid visitors will see dirty waterfall [If we don’t keep it clean],” Lukas shared his concern.

Talking about the refreshments, Lukas mentioned that the shops at Tanggedu waterfall will offer varying food and drink that are a local delicacy. Visitors can enjoy young coconut, boiled corn, boiled peanuts, and a hot drink. Having on-site refreshment shops, tourists do not need to bring their food and drink from Waingapu.

“[The variant of food and drink] will adapt to the visitors’ needs and desires,” he said.

The chief of the construction project, Mbepa Beli Andung (35) said that they initiated the building process in mid-August 2021. Some parts are not yet completed, including the handrail to reach the waterfall spot.

Mbepa also added that the project has been slow-moving because they have challenges with the delivery of the materials. Because the waterfall is located in difficult terrain, the closest reaching point for construction vehicles is at the suspension bridge. The bridge itself is 1,5 kilometers away from the construction site.

After the trucks deliver the materials at the bridge, workers need to carry them using small carts.

“[When we have to], we carry the materials using motorcycles of the nearby residents,” Mbepa added.

Despite the challenges, Mbepa is confident that the construction process will go as planned. “We still have time to complete the job,” he said.

Mbepa stated that his team will use any possible resources to complete the project before the end of the year.

“I am certain that [the project] will be completed before the end of the year,” he said. [Translator : Itha Priyastiti]