DRD: Polder Development is Needed to Overcome Floods

The Jakarta Regional Research Council (DRD) supports the construction of polders to overcome the potential for flooding.

It could be one solution

Muhammad Fausal Kahar, Senior Member of DRD Jakarta for the 2018-2022 Period said the polder system is a flood management method with complete physical facilities and an inseparable part of water management which includes a regional drainage system, retention ponds, embankments around the area, pumps, and sluice gates.

"Management of the water system is carried out by controlling the volume, discharge, water level, land use, and landscape. Currently, the Jakarta Water Resources (SDA) Agency will realize the construction of nine polders in flood-prone areas. It could be one solution," he expressed, Friday (2/18).

Plans for Development of Four Polders in North Jakarta Socialized

He explained flood management in Jakarta needs to be carried out comprehensively, from upstream to downstream. Moreover, the flooding in Jakarta has been around since the Dutch colonial era.

"At that time, it was known that 40 percent of Jakarta's area was below sea level, approximately 2.5 meters today. That's why, the Dutch built the Kota Tua area as a center for trade and tourism, surrounded by canals," he explained.

According to him, Jakarta was facing problems not only from the upstream area but also downstream with rob (tidal floods). Moreover, Jakarta is still experiencing land subsidence.

"I'm optimistic that these polders will have a significant impact on overcoming floods, including the tidal waves that often occur in the coastal areas of North Jakarta," he explained.

He hoped, through various comprehensive efforts and collaboration between the central government and the Jakarta administration, flood management efforts could be completed soon.

"Some are under the authority of the central government, some are under the authority of the Jakarta administration. We want synergy and understanding to continue to be strengthened to overcome this flood. So, there can be acceleration," he stated.

As for the information, through the 942 program, the agency will build nine polders, namely Kelapa Gading, Muara Angke, Teluk Gong, Kamal, Adyaksa, Pulomas, Marunda, Mangga Dua and Green Garden polders.