5 Facts Behind the Fatmawati Explosion During Excavation That Injured Workers
An explosion occurred on Jalan Fatmawati, Cilandak, South Jakarta. It was later discovered that the excavation site suddenly exploded due to the presence of PLN electricity cables.
The incident took place on Monday (8/6) at 09:30 WIB and went viral on social media. Circulating video footage shows smoke billowing into the air. Police arrived at the scene to manage the situation immediately after receiving a report from the National Police 110 call centre.
Here are several facts regarding the explosion during the excavation in Fatmawati, South Jakarta:
- Excavated by Water Utility Managers
Cilandak Police Chief, Commissioner Gusprihatin Zen, confirmed the incident. Gusprihatin stated that the explosion occurred while several workers from the water utility company were performing drilling work at the location. “It is true that an explosion occurred this morning at 09:30 WIB,” said Commissioner Gusprihatin when contacted on Monday (8/6/2026). “The clean water managers were attempting to clean and tidy the system. Before the work commenced, drilling was performed to ensure no cables were present.”
- Two Workers Sustained Burns
During the drilling process, an explosion suddenly occurred. As a result, two workers sustained burn injuries. “The PLN cable exploded. Two male workers suffered burns and were taken to the Fatmawati Emergency Room,” he added.
- High-Voltage Cable Explosion
He confirmed that the cable that exploded was a high-voltage cable. He revealed that officers were initially intending to perform maintenance for the clean water management system. “The explosion was unintentional. The PDAM water pipe excavation was being serviced and repaired, involving breaking/drilling. While attempting to verify the area, it turned out there was a PLN cable at the excavation site. It was struck,” he explained.
- Police Line Installed at Scene
Observations at the site on Monday (8/6/2026) around 14:30 WIB showed that the excavation area had been cordoned off with yellow police tape. Excavation activities were temporarily halted. An information board at the site stated, “Work in progress for clean water pipe installation to improve service.”
- Residents Heard the Blast
A local resident, Markum (54), claimed to have heard a very loud explosion. Markum stated he was at a ‘warteg’ (food stall) approximately 100 metres from the blast site. “I was at the warteg, but I heard it. The explosion was very loud,” said Markum. Shortly after the sound, Markum saw the victims being transported to a nearby hospital. He noted that one victim appeared to have burns on their face. “I saw them in the vehicle; their faces were blackened. I saw one person being transported, but I heard there were two victims. They were brought in a project vehicle,” he concluded.