AHY Inspects Ciliwung River by Rubber Boat: Rubbish on Both Sides

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) inspected the Ciliwung River area. He observed that the riverbanks were filled with rubbish throughout.

Observations by detikcom at the location on Thursday (7/5/2026) showed AHY inspecting the Ciliwung River banks alongside Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti. They navigated the river using a rubber boat.

“This river is truly in a critical condition. If we look just 5 km to the left and right, it’s clear that both sides are full of rubbish,” said AHY during the inspection at the Ciliwung Sodetan in Jatinegara, East Jakarta, on Thursday (7/5/2026).

AHY reminded that this behaviour of littering can damage the environment. “If rubbish is disposed of carelessly, blockages are certain to occur. No matter how many sodetans we build, it will be difficult to channel fast-flowing water, especially if the discharge is high,” he stressed.

He hoped that the public would realise the potential for environmental damage if the river is not maintained. He did not want Jakarta residents to continue experiencing floods every year.

“So, I hope we all truly understand the need and urgency to prevent overflowing floods at any time, which ultimately forces everyone to live with floods, when that is not the first choice,” he explained.

He warned the public to help preserve the river. According to him, there would be more losses if the public does not maintain the environment.

“Our first choice is to prevent the public from flooding. First, there is danger to ourselves and our families. Second, there will definitely be material damage and property damage,” he added.