Djarot: Jakarta Needs Breakthrough to Solve Flooding

Jakarta Vice Governor, Djarot Saiful Hdiajat assessed that Jakarta requires a breakthrough to resolve the problem of flooding. One of them, by building a deep tunnel which has been projected since 2007.

I emphasize, this is an investment, and we can attract private parties. There are some who are interested already

"We can't continue in the conventional thinking. There must be a breakthrough to solve the flood problem like this," said Djarot, at City Hall, Friday (2/13).

According to him, the existence of a deep tunnel has been used several countries and one of its functions aims to reduce flooding. Additionally, it can also be used as a highway.

Tamansari People Crossing Tunnel Unmaintained

Our breakthrough is deep tunnel, which is a big underground multifunctional tunnel. Besides draining the water in the rainy season, it can also be used for all sorts, such as transport, waste management and underground water supply," he explained.

Former Mayor of Blitar acknowledged that such discourse has existed since 2007. But until now, no one dared to execute the construction. He assessed, the construction should be handed over to private parties without using the City Budget (APBD) and the State Budget (APBN).

"I emphasize, this is an investment, and we can attract private parties. There are some who are interested already," he told.

Thus far, the study of the deep tunnel construction has been carried out. It is only completing the technical study plan and business plan. It is targeted to finish in the upcoming April in a bid to speed up its physical construction.

"Deep tunnel is very likely built. This tunnel will help the flood, West Canal Flood (KBB) and East Flood Canal (KBT). Moreover, the east canal has not functioned optimally because of the Ciliwung's waterway to canal is still 20 or 30 percent," he finished.