Ciliwung River in Bogor Recedes During Dry Season, Becoming a Playground for Children

The water flow of the Ciliwung River in Kampung Pulo Geulis, East Bogor District, Bogor City, has receded as a result of the dry season. The Ciliwung River, which is typically a source of fear during the rainy season, has now become a playground for children.

Observations on Sunday (2/8/202le) showed that the Ciliwung River flow in Pulau Geulis, Bogor City, is visibly low, with large rocks at the riverbed clearly exposed. Amidst the shallow flow, several children were seen playing with stones and even swimming. On the other side of the river, a group of youths could be seen flying kites. Meanwhile, several parents gathered near the suspension bridge and riverside houses to monitor their children, occasionally calling out to them as they ran amongst the large rocks.

A local resident, Yana (52), stated that the Ciliwung River has been receding for two months due to the drought. According to Yana, the low water levels have turned the area into a playground for children and a gathering spot for residents in the afternoons. “It has been about two months, and it remains like this. There have only been two instances of rain recently. The water level is still low,” Yana said in Kampung Pulo Geulis. He added, “That is why it has become a place for children to play; some are flying kites there, and others are swimming. Under normal conditions, no one would dare to swim, and parents would certainly forbid it.”

Kampung Pulo Geulis is a unique area in Bogor City, consisting of land situated in the middle of the wide Ciliwung River flow. The location can only be reached on foot or by motorcycle, crossing a suspension bridge over the river.

Another resident, Nandar, noted that the receding river provides an advantage for the children, as they would otherwise spend more time playing on the roadside or using mobile phones. “In my opinion, it is an advantage for the children. Firstly, they are not playing on the roadside, where there is a fear of being hit by vehicles,” Nandar said. He added, “While playing in the river, we do remain somewhat vigilant because we never know when an accident might occur, so we continue to monitor them. It is safer for the children than playing by the roadside.”