Drought Transforms Sumatra's Batanghari River, Exposing Vast Sandbanks

The prolonged dry season, lasting approximately two months, has begun to alter the landscape of the Batanghari River in Jambi Province. The water level of Sumatra’s longest river has continued to recede, exposing sandbanks at several locations, including the Tanjung Pasir area of Danau Teluk.

This phenomenon is also visible in Jambi City, Muaro Jambi Regency, and Batang Hari Regency, with the exposed sandbanks estimated to cover more than five hectares. The condition is a direct consequence of reduced rainfall during the dry season.

The drought has not only changed the physical appearance of the Batanghari River but has also affected the activities of communities who depend on the river’s flow for transportation and their daily needs.