Jakarta Speeds Up Flood Mitigation Efforts
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
Relentless rain lashing Jakarta and its outskirts since Saturday (3/7) has triggered widespread flooding across the capital. According to the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), floodwaters have not yet receded in 148 neighborhood blocks and 20 major thoroughfares as of noon Sunday (3/8).
All residents to stay on high alert
Jakarta BPBD Head, Isnawa Adji said, flash flooding has hammered several sectors of West, South, and East Jakarta, with water levels ranging from ankle-deep to as high as five feet (150 cm) in the hardest-hit areas.
The flooding is primarily the result of a perfect storm of relentless, heavy downpours over the past several days. However, the situation has reached a breaking point as major waterways—including the Ciliwung, Krukut, and Pesanggrahan rivers—have breached their banks.
BPBD Issues Alert Over Tidal Flooding in 12 Jakarta Coastal AreasHe noted that East Jakarta is bearing the brunt of the storm, with 60 neighborhood blocks currently underwater. South Jakarta follows closely with 55 affected blocks, while West Jakarta has reported 33.
His party has already put boots on the ground to keep tabs on the situation as it unfolds. Personnel are currently working hand-in-hand with various local agencies to spearhead mitigation efforts and provide a swift response to the hardest-hit areas.
"We're working hand-in-hand with the Water Resources, Public Works, and Fire and Rescue agencies to pump out floodwaters and ensure all storm drain inlets are clear and functioning. Personnel are also coordinating closely with local neighborhood administrators to provide essential relief supplies for those affected. We are pulling out all the stops to ensure floodwaters recede as quickly as possible," he expressed.
The BPBD reported that several residents have been forced out of their homes due to the rising waters, specifically in the West Pejaten neighborhood. A total of 46 households, comprising 72 residents, have taken up temporary shelter at the Al Inayah Mushola.
Isnawa is sounding the alarm, urging the public to stay on high alert for potential flooding, particularly in low-lying and high-risk areas.
"We are urging all residents to stay on high alert and keep their guard up as the risk of flooding persists. If you find yourself in dire straits or a life-threatening emergency, dial 112 immediately. This is a 24/7 toll-free hotline available to the public around the clock," he stated.
Traffic Alert: Inundated Roadways
Commuters and residents are advised to steer clear of the following routes currently reported to be underwater:
1. Jalan Srengseng Raya (Srengseng)
2. Jalan Daan Mogot KM 13 (Rawa Buaya)
3. Jalan Green Garden Housing – McDonald's area (Kedoya Utara)
4. JalanMeruya Selaran (Meruya Selatan)
5. Jalan Daan Mogot – In front of Victoria (Cengkareng Timur)
6. Jalan Daan Mogot – Taman Kota Bus Stop (Kedaung Kali Angke)
7. Jalan Kapten Pierre Tendean (Kuningan Barat)
8. Jalan Cileduk Raya – Seskoal area (Cipulir)
9. Jalan Cileduk Raya – Under the ITC Overpass (Cipulir)
10. Jalan Cileduk Raya – Shell Gas Station (Ulujami)
11. Jalan Bintaro Permai Raya – H. Gari area (Pesanggrahan)
12. Jalan Beo (Pesanggrahan)
13. Jalan Swadarma Raya (Ulujami)
14. Jalan Puri Kembangan – In front of SMK Budi Murni (Kedoya Selatan)
15. Jalan Kramat Raya (Tugu Utara)
16. Jalan Rawa Indah, RT 003 RW 003 (Pegangsaan Dua)
17. Jalan Karet Pasar Baru Barat I (Karet Tengsin, Tanah Abang)
18. Jalan Petamburan II (Petamburan, Tanah Abang)
19. Jalan Bendungan Hilir (Benhil, Tanah Abang)
20. Jalan Rengas Raya (Bintaro)