Dams, pumps to minimize floods

JAKARTA: City Public Works Agency workers are dredging canals, building dams and installing water pumps to minimize flooding in the city, an official says.

The official said the work was ongoing and would end flooding in 19 of 78 flood-prone areas in the city by 2007.

The administration plans to make four areas flood-free next year. When the East Flood Canal in the eastern part of the capital is finished in 2006, at least 13 areas are expected to be free of floods.

Some of the worst-affected areas in North Jakarta -- Kapuk, Sunter, Warakas and Kebon Bawang -- would be free of floods by 2007, the official said. --JP