Alleged fuel pump leak not found

JAKARTA: Jakarta Environment Management Agency (BPLHD) head Kosasih Wirahadikusumah said no leak was found at Kramat Sentiong fuel station, Central Jakarta, as alleged by local residents.

"We carried out a hydrostatic test two weeks ago, but so far haven't found leakage at the pump that was said to have polluted the residents' wells and should therefore be closed," Kosasih said at City Hall on Monday.

Kosasih explained the test was made by emptying the fuel container, filling it with water and pumping air into the container to a specific pressure.

"The air pressure did not fall in two days, longer than the required day of testing. That's why we have concluded that there is no leakage at the pump," he said.

The agency stated that allegations regarding the pollution of groundwater at locals' wells were made by some people amid the refusal of the station owner to make a "security payment" to local thugs.--JP.