Danger of Tangled Cables in West Kuningan
At the end of Jalan Kuningan Barat Raya, South Jakarta, stands a utility pole laden with hundreds of thick cables. Towering high, the structure resembles a terrifying piece of art that endangers road users.
Behind this pole, Ira runs a building materials shop. The giant cables obstruct the frontage of her store. “Many motorcyclists have fallen while shopping here; some have even broken their keys, and others have tumbled over. It is especially slippery after rain,” Ira said on Monday (28/9).
She noted that the situation worsens during the rainy season, as cables that were originally buried underground can surface. She blamed irresponsible workers for failing to properly complete excavations. “It seems they did not obtain the necessary permits, and the excavations were not deep enough, so when it rains, all the cables emerge,” Ira added.
Ira expressed frustration that there has been no solution for nearly five years, despite several inspections by officials that resulted in no significant repairs.
Another shop owner, Sri, also stated that she was unaware of how the massive cables came to hang in front of her shop, noting that no permission was sought from her. The ‘cable sculpture’ does not stop at Sri’s shop; the cables sprawl along the length of Jalan Kuningan Barat Raya. Approximately 60 metres from Sri’s shop, the ‘cable snakes’ pass by an Islamic school complex consisting of three levels: Raudhatul Athfal (RA), Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, and Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs).
Komar, a school security guard, admitted that the cables frequently endanger motorcyclists entering the school. “There have been many victims among motorists; I have even slipped myself,” Komar said. He also criticised officials for the haphazard way cables are laid, noting that some excavations are not properly resurfaced with cement.
Komar revealed that the school had to use its own funds to cover cables blocking the main entrance. He noted that these cables have been present for about five years, but he is unsure who to direct his protests to.
What exactly are these giant cables? Near the installation, technicians in safety vests and helmets were seen inspecting excavation holes. Rudi, a cable technician, explained that the thick cables on the pole are fibre optic cables. They serve as a central data hub for various internet providers.
“These are fibre optic cables containing internet network data centres from various providers. Indonesia’s internet traffic is centralised here,” Rudi explained. He noted that before being distributed across Indonesia, the data is first channelled through the Jabodetabek area.
As a technician, Rudi warned that fixing the cables is a complex task. They cannot be simply disconnected or buried underground immediately, as temporary routes must be established to maintain connectivity during the transition. “We cannot just cut them all at once; we must prepare temporary paths and fix them bit by bit, because cutting one could have a widespread impact,” Rudi said.
He also mentioned that the cables belong to multiple service providers, meaning any removal or relocation requires specific permits. “We cannot just cut them arbitrarily because many large clients, such as companies, offices, schools, and houses, are all connected through this hub.”
While the exact origin of the tangled mess is unclear, Yuliana, an iced tea vendor who has operated on the roadside for six years, suspects a nearby company. She alleged that since ‘Company E’ was established in 2019, the cable clutter along the road has significantly increased.