Land Dispute Stalls Crucial Ampal River Basin Flood Control Project in Balikpapan
A land dispute has become the primary obstacle in the construction of a retention pond project in the Ampal River Basin (DAS), Balikpapan. The project, envisioned as a crucial solution for flood control in downstream areas, is currently stalled due to ownership claims, even as the city government targets completion by December 2026.
Deputy Mayor of Balikpapan, Bagus Susetyo, revealed that the land claim issue has caused construction progress to reach only around 12 per cent. The retention pond is considered vital for holding rainwater runoff before it is channelled into the main waterways in the MT Haryono area.
“This retention pond is important for settling water so it doesn’t flow directly into the normal channels. The current capacity of the channels in the Ampal River Basin is limited, so rainwater needs to be temporarily retained to avoid overburdening the channels around MT Haryono,” Bagus stated during a site inspection on Tuesday.
Bagus explained that the city administration had previously allocated a budget of Rp6 billion through Unexpected Expenditure (BTT) funds to support the TNI Manunggal Membangun Desa (TMMD) programme at the location. In the initial phase, work proceeded without hindrance, but problems arose when the project was continued by the River Basin Agency (BWS).
“During the TMMD activities with the Rp6 billion budget from BTT funds, there were no issues. However, when the project was taken over by the BWS, a party came forward claiming ownership of the land,” he said.
He asserted that the government had already acquired the land. Bagus invited any party who feels aggrieved to pursue legal action or coordinate with the local village and sub-district heads to resolve the matter transparently.
“If anyone feels disadvantaged, please file a lawsuit or coordinate with us. If you remain silent, this issue will never be resolved. The government is ready to facilitate communication if needed,” he stressed.
Resolving the dispute is considered urgent as it concerns the broader public interest, particularly residents in downstream areas who have been affected by flooding. Bagus urged the disputing parties to prioritise deliberation over prolonging the conflict.
Based on technical data, the total land required for the retention pond is 9.8 hectares. Currently, approximately 1.4 hectares remain under dispute, leaving only 8.6 hectares available for construction. Previously, through the TMMD programme, the government had completed work on about 4 hectares as an initial phase.
“This is for the interest of the people of Balikpapan. If this project is not completed, flood management in the Ampal River Basin will continue to be a problem,” he added.
Beyond its technical function as flood control infrastructure, the retention pond area is designed to be multifunctional, serving as a Green Open Space (RTH). The facility will later be available for public recreational and sports activities.
“The public can fish, exercise, jog, or enjoy family outings. So besides retaining water, this area provides benefits as a public space,” Bagus explained.
The project will eventually be equipped with a sluice gate and a large-capacity sheet pile system. The Balikpapan city administration hopes all parties can work together to ensure this strategic project proceeds smoothly for the greater public good.