Tunnels built to ward off floods

BOGOR (JP): The local administration will build two drainage tunnels connecting the two biggest rivers in West Java, the Ciliwung and Cisadane, in an attempt to solve perennial flooding.

"The tunnels, each eight meters in diameter and one kilometer in length, are aimed at channeling water from the two rivers, especially during the rainy season," Bogor city secretary Itoc Tochija said on Tuesday.

"The work was supposed to begin in January, but I don't know why it's been delayed."

Itoc said residents of land designated for the project would be gradually relocated.

"We were offered this project by the central government. I think it's good for the city as we will be able to prevent huge floods," he said. (24/edt)