Central Jakarta dismantles 61 illegal structures to restore Sentiong River banks
The Central Jakarta city government has dismantled 61 illegal structures along the banks of the Sentiong River in Senen District, aiming to restore the river’s border function and support flood control measures. Paseban Village Head Citra Arum Purdiarini stated that the buildings, which included stalls, animal pens, security posts, and dwellings, were located across four community units (RW 04, 05, 06, and 08) stretching 1.2 kilometres. Prior to the operation, the sub-district office conducted public awareness campaigns and issued warning letters instructing owners to demolish the structures independently. The demolition was carried out by a joint team comprising the Civil Service Police Unit, the Bina Marga, Water Resources, Transportation, and Environmental agencies, supported by police and military personnel. The clearance is targeted for completion within two days, after which the Water Resources Sub-agency will resume the long-delayed construction of sheet piles along the riverbank. Additionally, the Parks and Urban Forest Sub-agency will develop green open spaces at the site for the benefit of the local community. The integrated arrangement is expected not only to restore the Sentiong riverbank but also to provide a more orderly, safe, and comfortable public space for residents.