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This was conveyed by Prof. Ir. Ramadhani Eka Putra, M.Si., Ph.D., an expert from the Research Group of Biological Resource Management, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung (SITH �鶹ֱ��).

Ecological Response of Insects to Environmental Changes

According to Prof. Ramadhani, wasps, like other social insects, require three main components to establish and sustain a colony: the availability of food sources, suitable nesting locations, and areas relatively safe from natural predators. Infrastructure structures such as bridge underpasses and toll road tunnels inadvertently fulfill these requirements. These areas are protected from rain, strong winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations, while also experiencing minimal disturbance from predators. Such conditions make bridge underpasses strategically favorable sites for wasp colonies.

“Tunnels or bridge underpasses are strategic locations for wasps. In fact, their habitat has long been around these areas, so they are essentially returning to places they previously occupied,” he explained.

In response to public speculation on social media suggesting that tree cutting may have triggered the phenomenon, Prof. Ramadhani stated that the assumption is ecologically relevant. The loss of vegetation can reduce natural shelter availability, encouraging wasp colonies to seek alternative habitats.

He further explained that wasps are highly dependent on environmental stability. Since they cannot alter their surroundings, adaptation becomes their only option. When environmental conditions become unfavorable, whether due to weather changes, vegetation loss, or human disturbances, the colony collectively decides to migrate to a safer location.

Prof. Ramadhani also noted that the wasp swarm phenomenon on the Cipularang Toll Road may serve as an early warning sign of declining environmental quality in the surrounding area.

“When insects leave their original habitat, it indicates that the environment no longer sufficiently supports their survival. This may be linked to environmental degradation or climate change,” he said.

Risks to Humans and Possible Mitigation Measures

Although bridge structures provide optimal protection for wasps, the presence of large swarms in public spaces poses potential risks to humans. Wasp stings may trigger allergic reactions and increase the likelihood of traffic accidents due to panic among drivers.

Prof. Ramadhani emphasized that the phenomenon can be viewed from two perspectives: either as a threat requiring control or as a manageable ecological occurrence that may be tolerated if it does not pose significant danger.

“Ultimately, it depends on the human perspective. If the situation has the potential to cause harm, then mitigation is necessary,” he stated.

A large wasp population in the area may also increase the likelihood of rapid colony expansion. Therefore, mitigation decisions should consider the level of risk to public safety.

Regarding preventive efforts, Prof. Ramadhani explained that humans cannot fully control wasp movement. However, mitigation measures may include making certain structures less attractive to wasps through technological approaches or the controlled use of safe chemical compounds. Additionally, improving environmental quality and preserving natural predators of wasps, such as birds, play important roles in maintaining population balance naturally.

Through this phenomenon, Prof. Ramadhani encourages the public to respond wisely to unusual natural occurrences. “It is natural for humans to feel afraid. However, as long as they are not disturbed and do not pose serious danger, coexistence is possible. Ultimately, this phenomenon reminds us that human infrastructure is often built upon the living spaces of other organisms,” he concluded.