PT Kayan Hydro Energy Kayan Cascade Hydroelectric Development Will Not Disturb Ecosystem

JAKARTA - President Director of PT Kayan Hydro Energy Andrew Suryali ensured that the construction of the Kayan Cascade Hydroelectric Power Plant (PLTA) will not disturb the Kayan River ecosystem, which is located in Peso District, Bulungan Regency, North Kalimantan.

This followed the construction of one of the five dams on the river. This development was carried out after the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) issued the Borrow-to-Use Forest Area Permit (IPPKH).

"The ecosystem is maintained, the upstream and downstream are maintained," said Andrew at a press conference held at the JW Marriot Hotel, Kuningan, South Jakarta, Wednesday, December 22.

He said the diversion of the river flow did occur. However, this current transfer occurs only briefly and will not disturb the ecosystem in the river.

"When we started building there was a temporary diversion of the river beside the dam being built," he said.

"But, because of this diversion, we will temporarily make two dams in front and behind the dam that will be built later," added Andrew.

He did not deny that in the process of this transfer there will be disturbances. "But after that there were no more disturbances, so the river seemed to be flowing normally. Then at the time of filling we would not stop the flow and would slowly fill (the dam, ed) according to the natural conditions of the river," he explained.

Andrew also emphasized that local villagers will also be involved in the process of constructing the Kayan Cascade hydropower plant. Moreover, thousands of workers are definitely needed.

In fact, local residents are paid a higher price. "In 2011-2012 we employed a lot of local villagers until we were protested by the timber company because we paid more," he said.

"Development of the Kayan dam requires 2,000 workers while the village population is around 100. But, I always say it all depends on the will of the community," he concluded.