Riau – PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur (HKI) is managing the construction of the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road, which spans 40 kilometers. Currently, HKI is completing 9 kilometers of the main road along with the rest area or Rest and Service Area (RSA). As of now, 31 kilometers of the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road have been completed and operational since 2022. This toll road connects two regions: Pekanbaru City and Bangkinang District in Kampar Regency, Riau. 

The RSA on the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road, built by HKI, is located at STA 36+000 on both sides A and B. The construction of the RSA has reached the finishing stage to finalize the development. Initiated in January 2023, the RSA incorporates a design inspired by Riau’s traditional culture, featuring Lipat Pandan Roofs and Selembayung ornaments. These cultural elements emphasize the preservation and introduction of Riau’s local heritage to toll road users.

From a facility perspective, the RSA on the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road is designed as a type A rest area. It includes amenities such as public toilets, a mosque, a food court, MSME stalls, a minimarket, parking spaces for small and large vehicles, and space allocated for future gas station construction. The RSA also emphasizes green open spaces and dedicated areas for MSME tenants. As part of the Trans Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) network, the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road, including its RSA, is envisioned not only as a transit area for drivers but also as a social hub and a center for creative economic activities.

One challenge faced during the RSA construction was managing operations during specific periods such as the Eid holidays. “The Eid holidays brought a surge in road users compared to regular days. Therefore, the RSA at STA 36+000 had to be functional during the holiday to meet the needs of toll road users. The project team worked optimally on-site to ensure the RSA could be operational for the holiday period. However, during this time, construction progress on the RSA had to be temporarily halted,” said HKI President Director, Aji Prasetyanti.

This RSA will serve as a vital facility for users of the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road. With enhanced facilities and improved access via the Pekanbaru – Bangkinang Toll Road, it is anticipated that investments in fisheries, plantations, and mining sectors around Riau will increase. Additionally, local tourism destinations such as the Muara Takus Temple Tourism Area and the Kampar Green River Tourist Spot are expected to see a rise in visitors once the RSA and other facilities are fully operational.

As of now, HKI continues to work on other Trans Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) projects, such as the Padang – Sicincin Toll Road, Binjai – Pangkalan Brandan Toll Road Zone II and IV, Bangkinang – Pangkalan Toll Road, and Pekanbaru Ring Road Toll Road. For non-JTTS projects, HKI is also involved in the SMO Construction Services project at PHR Riau, the replacement of Callender Hamilton (CH) bridges in Java, and the construction of the Probolinggo – Banyuwangi Toll Road Package II.