Pramono Inaugurates Two East Jakarta Retention Basins to Boost Flood Mitigation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung launched two new artificial lakes, locally known as Embung—Bambu Hitam and Batu Bangkong artificial lakes—in Cipayung, East Jakarta, Monday (10/19).

This facility was developed as a water resource management tool

According to Pramono, the project reflects the Jakarta government's dedication to boosting flood mitigation facilities and creating community spaces.

"This facility was developed as a water resource management tool, a raw water supply, and a space for public interaction," he expressed.

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Developed by the Water Resources Agency since 2025, the project incorporates blue-green infrastructure and nature-based solutions. Beyond water conservation and retention, the lake offers public amenities such as a community hall, a jogging path, and a children's playground.

He urged both site managers and the public to maintain and preserve the new facilities.

"In the rainy season, this place is bound to flood. Thus, the facility plays two roles: during dry periods, it functions as a park, community center, and jogging track. When heavy rains hit, it naturally floods to absorb the runoff," he explained.

He highlighted the city's dedication to flood mitigation, such as building artificial lakes and reservoirs as well as dredging rivers during dry spells. He hopes these initiatives will solve flood problems over the long run.

"Our flood mitigation work isn't reactive—we don't start acting only when it rains. Our approach is centered on prevention," he explained.

Jakarta Water Resources Agency Head Ika Agustin Ningrum explained that the artificial lake was designed as a conservation site to resolve local flooding.

"Instead of reducing flood volume, its main role is water conservation. When a flood hits, it fills to capacity—the entire lake is meant to hold floodwaters," she continued.

The basin serves as a runoff collector for local neighborhood drains and drainage networks nearby. During dry spells, the site doubles as a recreational area featuring parks, open public spaces, and a community center.

"Hence, we request the understanding of local residents—during severe flooding, this site will naturally be covered in water," she added.

The lake also features a wastewater treatment unit capable of processing 250 cubic meters per day.

The Batu Bangkong basin occupies a 1.3-hectare area, offering a retention capacity of roughly 20,300 cubic meters. In comparison, the Bambu Hitam lake extends across 2.1 hectares with a total capacity of around 16,250 cubic meters.