Jakarta Braces for Tidal Floods in Coastal Area
Reported by Folmer | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
The Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) continues to handle the problem of tidal flooding in the northern coastal area, especially in Kota Tua, Muara Angke, Pluit, Ancol and surrounding areas.
If a disaster or emergency occurs, immediately contact Jakarta Siaga 112 call center
Jakarta BPBD Head, Isnawa Adji stated the tidal flood was caused by high tides and made worse by land subsidence, as well as climate change which caused sea levels to rise.
"That's why we make various efforts to handle it, starting from Construction of Giant Sea Wall, Improvement of Drainage Systems and River Normalization, Construction of Reservoirs and Water Storage Systems, Construction of Infiltration Wells and Groundwater Management, Early Warning and Monitoring Systems, Education and Outreach to the Community, Relocation and Area Arrangement, as well as collaboration with private sector," he expressed, Tuesday (12/17).
BPBD Again Holds Weather Modification OperationsHe went on to say that several challenges in handling tidal flooding in Jakarta also occurred, including land subsidence due to excessive groundwater extraction. This condition could worsen the impact of tidal flooding, and make Jakarta's coastal areas even more vulnerable to tidal flooding. Thus, significant changes needed to be made in water resource management.
"The next big challenge is sea level rise and climate change. The higher seawater conditions increase the frequency and intensity of tidal floods," he furthered.
As quoted by BMKG's official website, the high level of tidal flood risk is expected to last until December 20. However, weather and tidal factors are very dynamic, BPBD Jakarta will keep updating information regularly through official media such as websites and social media.
Therefore, residents were urged to always be alert and ready with emergency equipment, as well as monitor the latest weather information including early warnings of tidal waves on the official media of Jakarta BPBD or BMKG.
"We have prepared lifeboats, rubber boats, and BPBD equipment and personnel to remain on standby at the location from before the water overflows until the water dries up. Thus, when people need to be evacuated, we're ready. We urge them all to prepare disaster preparedness bags. If a disaster or emergency occurs, immediately contact Jakarta Siaga 112 call center," he uttered.
