Pramono Calls for Synergy to Tackle Dry Season Effects

The Jakarta government is strengthening its mitigation measures to address potential fire hazards and the impacts of the dry season in the capital.

We must stay alert and prepare contingency mitigation plans

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that, based on forecasts from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), the El Niño phenomenon is expected to persist until January 2027.

Pramono made these remarks while leading the "Jaga Jakarta" preparedness rally for the 2026 dry season at the South Monas Square on Wednesday (9/2).

Jakarta Braces for El Niño with Weekly Weather Modification Operations

"According to BMKG forecasts, the dry season will peak in August and September 2026, with El Niño expected to last until early 2027," he expressed.

El Niño poses various risks, including droughts, wildfires, poor air quality, and threats to public health. At the same time, the increasingly hot and dry weather heightens the risk of fires, particularly in densely populated residential areas.

The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) recorded 457 fire incidents across the capital from July to August 2026.

The majority of these fires occurred in West and East Jakarta, suspected to be caused by electrical short circuits, trash burning, and the careless disposal of cigarette butts.

"The constantly shifting weather means we must stay alert and prepare contingency mitigation plans," he added.

Consequently, he instructed the BPBD to address drought impacts and water shortages by deploying 29 water tankers from ten collaborating agencies.

He also urged his team to implement further measures to prevent fires, maintain air quality, and strengthen food security, while ensuring that rapid information and response reach the grass-roots level.

Pramono commended the preparedness of the Jakarta government and its partners, specifically the deployment of water tankers to distribute clean water to drought-prone neighborhoods.

He also urged his team to remain proactive and avoid delayed responses, instructing every agency to thoroughly understand the potential impacts within their respective areas.

Beyond mobilizing resources at the local level, he urged his officials to understand the unique characteristics and conditions of their respective areas.

"Identify what the community needs so that support can be prepared and deployed whenever necessary," he added.

Additionally, he instructed his team to ensure that clean water is distributed quickly and accurately. To ensure all mitigation plans are successful, he stressed the importance of stronger cross-sector collaboration.

"Build solid cooperation in the field so communication remains effective, allowing everyone to move together quickly and efficiently," he added.

He emphasized the importance of synergy among regional leaders (Forkopimda) and volunteers to manage the dry season. This includes monitoring fire-prone spots, securing food supplies, and educating residents in crowded areas about electrical short-circuit hazards.

"I want to thank all regional leaders, volunteers, and partners for their continued support and collaboration in managing disasters in Jakarta," he concluded.

Pramono also urged the public to help protect their surroundings. This includes using water wisely, preventing fire hazards, avoiding littering cigarette butts, and ensuring fire extinguishers are readily available.

Approximately 1,027 personnel took part in the rally, representing the Jakarta government, army, police, and various agencies such as BNPB, BMKG, PAM Jaya, and Red Cross (PMI), along with volunteers and disaster management partners.

Jakarta BPBD Acting Head, Marulitua Sijabat explained that residents affected by the drought can request clean water through the 112 emergency hotline. His team is collaborating with the city water utility, PAM Jaya, to manage the distribution.

"We've coordinated with PAM Jaya to establish 112 as the primary communication channel. We are currently briefing officials at the city, sub-district, and urban village levels to ensure this information reaches the public," he uttered.