Public Works Minister emphasises importance of river mouth normalisation along West Pantura Coastal Route

Jakarta - Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has highlighted the importance of normalising river mouths and drainage systems along the West Pantura Coastal Route, including along the Citarum, Ciliwung, and Cisadane rivers.

“Road improvements will certainly be futile if drainage is clogged and river mouths experience sedimentation that triggers tidal flooding or waterlogging during rainfall,” said Dody in Karawang, West Java on Saturday.

According to him, this measure is necessary to prevent waterlogging and tidal flooding which can accelerate road damage.

“If the river mouth is wide open and water flows forcefully, sediment will be swept out to sea. We are preparing pumps at flood-prone locations and establishing joint posts between road and water management teams so that if waterlogging occurs, we can quickly drain the water,” he said.

Additionally, he has called on the public to help maintain the cleanliness of drainage channels in their respective areas to prevent obstruction of water flow.

“Our task (Public Works Ministry) is to ensure that roads along the West Pantura are fit for purpose, safe, and pleasant for the public,” said Dody.

The Public Works Minister stated that the ministry is preparing pumps to anticipate flooding along the Pantura route during the Eid homecoming period in 2026.