Indramayu Fishermen Threaten State Palace Protest Over Karangsong Estuary Siltation

Extreme siltation at the Karangsong estuary in Indramayu Regency, West Java, has sparked anger among local fishermen. The Pantura Fishermen’s Movement (GNP), the Mina Sumitra Marine Fisheries Cooperative (KPL), and boat owners are threatening to stage a protest in Jakarta if the government does not immediately address the infrastructure in the area.

The increasingly critical condition of the estuary has severely hampered the shipping lanes used by fishing vessels. Not only are incoming boats obstructed, but fleets heading out to sea are also trapped. One such incident involved the Motor Vessel (KM) Gajah Samudra, which was carrying a load of fish from Papua waters and was forced to wait for four days without being able to dock to unload its cargo.

GNP Chairman Kajidin explained that the severe siltation was triggered by damage to the breakwater. This damage has allowed marine mud deposits to continuously flow into the estuary area without any barrier. He argued that repeated dredging would be pointless if the breakwater is not permanently repaired. The fishermen are therefore hoping the government will resolve the issue promptly. "The condition is already very severe," Kajidin asserted.