Residents Disturbed by Black Lake in Taman Bendera Pusaka

JAKARTA – Taman Bendera Pusaka in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, was originally known as a calming green space. However, recently visitors have complained about the condition of the artificial lake located in the centre of the park. The lake’s water appears pitch black and emits an unpleasant odour, making the experience of enjoying the park less comfortable. Danar (27), one of the visitors who came with his sibling, said that he enjoys the park’s facilities, especially the children’s play area. Similar complaints were voiced by Augita (35), a resident of West Jakarta. The condition of the black and smelly artificial lake reduces comfort, although the park remains attractive to visit. “Yes, the smell was quite disturbing when passing by,” she said. Amid the pungent smell, some visitors still approach to enjoy the lake’s view. Eight swans can be seen swimming in two parts of the lake. Some visitors even feed them biscuits, causing the swans to chase after them on the water’s surface. However, for some visitors, the appeal of these animals is not enough to offset the discomfort from the smell and water colour. Activities that should be enjoyable have instead become an uncomfortable experience for them. In response to residents’ complaints, the supervisor of Taman Bendera Pusaka, Budi Purbadi, explained that the lake’s construction is not yet fully complete. Currently, the DKI Jakarta Water Resources Agency is building a wastewater treatment installation in the park area.