More flood-prone areas this year

JAKARTA (JP): The number of areas in the capital likely to be inundated by flood waters during the wet season could reach at least 108, far in excess of last year's 82 sites, it was announced yesterday.

"However, the number could be even higher if the level of rainfall is similar to last year's," R. Sitindjak, head of the Jakarta Disaster Prevention unit, said.

Rapid economic development appeared to be one factor which contributed to the 30 percent increase in the number of flood- prone areas, he said.

The areas at risk in Central Jakarta include Petamburan, Jl. Bendungan Hilir, Jl. Sabang, Jl. Wahid Hasyim, Jl. M.H. Thamrin, Jl. Industri, Jl. Pangerang Jayakarta, Rajawali Selatan and Cideng.

In North Jakarta, the list includes Kampung Rawa Badak, Kampung Tugu Utara, the Kelapa Gading housing complex, Kampung Warakas, Jl. Martadinata, Jembatan Dua and Teluk Gong.

In West Jakarta, the areas include Daan Mogot, Palmerah/Kemandoran, Bojong Indah, Batusari, Meruya Ilir and Mangga Besar.

In South Jakarta, the areas that may be hit include Gandaria Utara, Kampung Ulujami, Tebet, Melawai, South Manggarai, Pondok Pinang and Permata Hijau.

In East Jakarta, Cawang Dewi Sartika, Bidara Cina, Kampung Melayu, Kebon Nanas and Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan are expected to be affected. (ind)