Sinkhole risk must be anticipated: Deputy Governor warns of aged PAM Jaya pipes

Deputy Governor of Jakarta Rano Karno has raised concerns over recent sinkhole incidents in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, warning that similar events could occur elsewhere in the capital. He pointed to aging underground infrastructure, including PAM Jaya water pipes over 100 years old, which could weaken and cause sinkholes due to water leakage.

“Sinkholes like those in Lenteng Agung could happen again,” he said at Pos Bloc, Central Jakarta, on Saturday (30 May 2026). “Imagine pipes that are 100 years old—they’re bound to deteriorate. It’s no surprise if Jakarta experiences sinkholes like this, not just in one place.”

Karno noted that sinkholes are not unique to Jakarta, with global cities like Bangkok and Tokyo having faced similar issues due to underground infrastructure or geological conditions. “Thailand has experienced it, Tokyo as well. In Thailand, the case was severe because there’s an MRT underneath,” he added.

The Jakarta Provincial Government will continue monitoring underground infrastructure to minimise the risk of sinkholes, as seen in Lenteng Agung. Karno also urged residents to monitor local infrastructure, citing a shortage of around 3,000 staff in Bina Marga’s road maintenance team. “As you know, our Bina Marga road maintenance staff are short by nearly 3,000, and recruitment is limited,” he said.