While fire potential in North Jakarta increases, ironically, the availability of hydrants is not sufficient. Many hydrants are not functioning due to low water pressure. Partially damaged or stolen.

By this means, merely 50 percent of hydrant can be used in emergency situation

Based on the data compiled by North Jakarta Fire Handling and Rescue Sub-Department, as many as 97 out of 193 hydrant units in six sub-districts areas remain in operation.

“By this means, merely 50 percent of hydrant can be used in emergency situation. The repair over dozen damaged hydrants is forced to be done. We have reported it to related department to be repaired immediately or replaced with the new one,” said Satriadi Gunawan, Head of North Jakarta Fire Handling and Rescue, Thursday (7/30).

In order to anticipate water shortages, firemen prefer to suck up the water from several connection channels and rivers.

Gunawan acknowledged there were 66 fire cases during January until June in North Jakarta and caused two casualties and material loss reached Rp 21.7 billion.

According to him, the fire potential in Jakarta is pretty higher, as mostly resident placed in densely populated areas. “We urged them to increase alertness especially concerning electricity. As majority fire triggered by short circuit,” he disclosed.