Pamulang Mas Residents Reject 1-Metre Embankment, Concerned About Tree Felling and Reduced Water Absorption

SOUTH TANGERANG, KOMPAS.com - Residents of RT 002/008 in Villa Pamulang Mas Phase II, Setu Subdistrict, South Tangerang City (Tangsel), have rejected plans to build an embankment along the riverbank. The proposed 1-metre-high embankment is a project by the South Tangerang City Government (Pemkot Tangsel) as part of flood mitigation efforts. RT 002 Secretary, Heri Pratikto (63), stated that the rejection was voiced by residents following a socialisation session by Pemkot Tangsel about three months ago. “In RT 02, nearly 90 percent of residents oppose it. There are about 70 households involved, and 90 percent rejected it,” Heri told Kompas.com at the site on Wednesday (15/4/2026). Residents’ concerns stem from potential environmental impacts deemed worse, particularly the reduction in water absorption space. “If the trees are cut down, it will become hot. Water absorption will also decrease; that’s what worries the residents,” he said. Additionally, residents believe the embankment could hinder water flow from within the settlement during floods. “If an embankment is built, water from inside houses or the neighbourhood could be blocked. We’re afraid the water won’t be able to exit and will stagnate longer,” Heri explained. According to Heri, flooding in the area has occurred for more than the last 10 years. During heavy rain, water levels can reach 30 to 50 centimetres (cm) and often enter residents’ homes. “It usually happens once a year,” he added. Therefore, residents of RT 002/008 have agreed to reject the embankment construction. As an alternative, they propose that Pemkot Tangsel maximises the function of existing water channels around the location. “Over there is another river, built since 2014, but for about 10 years it hasn’t been optimal. It’s better to dredge or deepen it so the flow is smooth,” Heri said. According to him, this proposal has been conveyed by residents in a communication forum with Pemkot Tangsel. However, to date, there has been no final decision regarding flood handling in the area.