Physical construction of Kelok 23, the road connecting Girijati, Purwosari, Gunungkidul with Kretek, Bantul, has been completed. This stretch, part of the Southern Cross Road (JJLS), is expected to begin operating as early as September 2026.
“Alhamdulillah, as just presented, the construction target has been met,” said Gunungkidul Regent Endah Subekti Kuntariningsih, speaking to reporters at Kelok 23, Girijati, Purwosari, Gunungkidul.
Endah added that construction of Kelok 23 began in August 2023, spanning roughly five kilometers. Of that total, 1.9 kilometers falls within Gunungkidul Regency.
“We’re hoping this will help ease congestion heading toward Gunungkidul Regency. It will also make things easier for tourists, particularly those heading to the southern coast, giving them easier, faster, and safer access,” she said.
Three Scenic Viewpoints Along the Route
In more detail, Endah revealed that Kelok 23 features three scenic viewpoints, given that the road runs through hilly terrain overlooking the southern coastal area (Pansela).
“Two of those three locations still belong to the Bantul Regency government, while the last viewpoint sits on land shared between two regencies, Bantul and Gunungkidul,” she said.
According to Endah, this final viewpoint, spanning both Gunungkidul and Bantul regencies, will feature a rest area. Several stalls for local small and medium enterprises (UMKM) are also planned for the site.
“We’ll need to coordinate with the Bantul government on how this collaboration will work, since that land, which will host the rest area, is shared between the two regencies,” she said.
Construction Complete, but Opening Still a Few Months Away
Sukiswandi, Field Coordinator for Commitment-Making Official (PPK) 1.2 at the Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) Work Unit, added that physical construction has indeed been fully completed. However, Kelok 23 won’t be operational just yet this month.
“Physical construction is 100% complete, but God willing, it will be opened for use in September or October this year,” he said.
Regarding plans for an official opening ceremony for Kelok 23, Sukiswandi said he’s still awaiting further coordination with the Ministry of Public Works (PU).
“All that’s left now is the inauguration, whether it’ll be held virtually or in person, we’re still waiting for word from the Ministry of Public Works,” he said.
