Tanah Abang Water Resources Unit Cites Unsterilised Locations as Hurdle for Drainage Normalisation

The Tanah Abang Water Resources Implementation Unit (Satpel SDA) in Central Jakarta has stated that unsterilised work locations are a key obstacle in carrying out drainage normalisation projects in the area. The head of the unit, Eli Menawan Sari, explained that the hindrance is generally caused by traders still occupying the area above the channels, preventing work from commencing immediately. “The obstacle is actually more about the location not being sterile, for example, there are still traders above the channel. For that, we need assistance from regional stakeholders, especially the sub-district head, so that the location can be sterilised before work begins,” Eli said when contacted in Jakarta on Monday. Eli stated that coordination with the sub-district is the main step to ensure the normalisation process proceeds according to plan. In addition to clearing the location, her party also ensures that work is only carried out on channels that are assets of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government. She revealed that if there are trees at the location hindering the work, their handling can still be coordinated with relevant agencies, so they do not become a major obstacle. Currently, the Tanah Abang Sub-district SDA Unit is working on five channel normalisation projects in the Karet Tengsin, Gelora, Bendungan Hilir, and Kebon Kacang areas. The work is a follow-up to residents’ proposals through the Development Planning Deliberation (Musrenbang), sub-district head proposals, and community aspirations. The normalisation is carried out by replacing damaged channels with u-ditch concrete so that the water flow capacity increases and can reduce the potential for puddles during rain. Meanwhile, the Head of the Central Jakarta Administrative City Water Resources Sub-agency, Adrian Mara Maulana, conveyed that the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government continues to undertake various flood mitigation efforts by running river normalisation and channel repair programmes. This normalisation programme includes widening channels or rivers, arranging riverbanks, and sustainable environmental management. “The Water Resources Sub-agency is responsible for ensuring the provision of sustainable water resources, managing water-related infrastructure, and supporting the achievement of efficient spatial planning,” he said.