Jakarta Inundated, Basuki Questioned Public Works Dept's Performance

Heavy rain that showered the capital on Monday (7/7) night, has left puddle in some locations in the capital city. As a result, traffic congestion cannot be avoided. Even Acting Jakarta Governor Basuki 'Ahok' T Purnama also stuck in congestion when he wanted to attend the activity of breaking the fast in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, and he had to cancel it.

They (Public Works Deparment) can only promise but no realization. I also promise to replace you (Head of Public Works Department, Manggas Rudi Siahaan). Honestly, I came and asked Public Works Department, you guys want a fuss? Are there any sabotage? Or is there a boycott of PU? Just tell me

No wonder, Basuki once again questioned the performance of the Public Works Department. When rain poured, many drains are malfunctioned and cause puddle in some points.

"They (Public Works Deparment) can only promise but no realization. I also promise to replace you (Head of Public Works Department, Manggas Rudi Siahaan). Honestly, I came and asked Public Works Department, you guys want a fuss? Are there any sabotage? Or is there a boycott of PU? Just tell me," stressed Basuki at City Hall, Tuesday (7/8).

Puddle on Jalan Raya Kalibaru Barat Not Yet Receded

According to him, Public Works Department has formed a flood taskforce a while ago. But they are still fixated on old patterns, that is completing problem at the end of the year. "Just clean the drains if rain does not pour. But don't use the old patterns where solving problem in October, November, December. As you know, the current weather has been erratic," he asserted.

He exemplified that there are some unoptimal activities, such as inspection road construction done by reclaimed island developer, Pakin River normalization done by private party, as well as zero hole target which is not yet realized well.

"I have told them to use month system, but it has not been conducted until now," he exclaimed.

He was also upset because of the potholes around his home in Pantai Mutiara area, Central Jakarta, has not been repaired. Considering he had instructed the Public Works Department to immediately repair them to prevent congestion.

"While passing Ekor Kunig area, I saw potholes and ask them to patch it. But they do not do it. I was forced to get angry in public, and then they do it. Similar condition is also spotted along Jalan Raden Saleh, Sentiong, West Canal Flood, Tanah Abang, where are you?," he lamented.

Nevertheless, he would give an opportunity to Siahaan until early 2015. If he cannot improve the performance, Basuki will replace him. "Probably I have to replace the head and its deputy. But I must ask permission to Home Ministry and Mr. Jokowi first," he exclaimed.