Rorotan RDF Plant Prioritizes Resident Safety in Its Operations
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by
The Jakarta Environmental Agency is setting the record straight regarding the Rorotan RDF Plant, confirming the facility is staying the course with a slow and steady approach. Operations remain active, with a primary focus on keeping nearby residents out of harm’s way.
This plant is for the greater good
Jakarta Environmental Agency Head, Asep Kuswanto said, this clarification is intended to provide transparency to the public while demonstrating the Jakarta government’s commitment to managing waste processing facilities responsibly and with the utmost care.
He described the plant as a game-changer for Jakarta's waste strategy but insisted that officials are not cutting corners. The implementation is being handled with surgical precision and tight oversight to protect the local ecosystem and the public.
Rorotan RDF Plant Under Field Calibration, Jakarta Environment Agency Confirms"Operations at the Rorotan RDF Plant are being done in measured phases with a cautious approach. The entire process is under strict supervision to ensure the system functions optimally without impacting nearby residents,” he expressed, Monday (2/2).
He stated that the Jakarta government’s primary concern is the people living near the facility. He is ensuring that every potential impact felt by the community is evaluated on the ground and not ignored.
Complaints regarding odors and vehicle traffic are being addressed through technical operational adjustments.
"We are not turning a blind eye to the residents' concerns. In fact, public feedback serves as a crucial wake-up call for us to make improvements. The plant’s operation is not being forced upon the community; rather, it is based on the principles of mutual protection and respect,” he explained.
As a tangible step, the Environmental Agency is ensuring that all emission and odor control systems are functioning optimally.
Further, waste transport to the Rorotan RDF Plant is restricted to sealed compactor trucks procured in 2024 and 2025. These vehicles meet strict technical standards, effectively nipping odor issues and leachate spills in the bud at the source.
He noted that field monitoring is also being conducted through two checkpoints located at the main access points from East and North Jakarta.
"At these posts, officers conduct rigorous inspections of every transport vehicle, ensuring that beds are tightly sealed, leachate tanks are leak-proof, and no waste fluid drips onto the road," he explained.
Asep emphasized that the city is doubling down on modernizing waste management through the Rorotan facility, aiming to eventually break the habit of relying on landfills.
The agency is tuned in to the community’s concerns. Because of this, they are playing it safe by using a data-driven approach that puts the environment first.
"This plant is for the greater good. We want to prevent a garbage crisis from landing on our doorstep like we’ve seen elsewhere. We’re committed to keeping the lines of communication open with our neighbors to ensure this project is a success for everyone," he stated.
