Jakarta Vows Crackdown on Private Firms Over Illegal Trash Mounds

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged to impose firm sanctions on private parties responsible for a waste fire on Jalan Penggilingan Baru 1, Dukuh, Kramat Jati, East Jakarta.

We will publicly name those responsible and impose social sanctions

The blaze, which erupted on a plot of land used for illegal dumping, tragically resulted in the death of a firefighter in the line of duty.

"We will publicly name those responsible and impose social sanctions," Pramono stated, at Jakarta City Hall, Wednesday (8/5).

Jakarta Warns of Tough Sanctions for Illegal Waste Dumping

Pramono explained that the disaster was precipitated by significant trash piles illegally or improperly managed by private players.

In a move to ensure accountability, he has mandated city agencies to force these parties to cover all costs and reparations stemming from the fire.

"I have been in talks with the relevant agencies. Tomorrow, we will issue the bill for the damages they must pay. They are an organized group, not just a few individuals, and they must take responsibility," Pramono asserted.

Besides the sanctions, Pramono has shut down the vacant land to prevent further haphazard waste disposal by private firms.

"If they continue these practices, they will face more than just financial penalties. We will expose the identity of these companies to the public," he warned.

According to him, these entities operate by charging hotels, restaurants, and cafes (Horeca) for waste collection services. He is now urging the Horeca sector to boycott and stop partnering with any waste transporters involved in illegal dumping.

He added that illegal waste dumping poses a grave danger, particularly as Jakarta grapples with the looming El-Nino phenomenon and a prolonged dry season, both of which significantly heighten the risk of fire outbreaks.