The Minister Of Public Works Affirms That Flood Control In Jabodetabek Really Depends On The Role Of The Regional Government

JAKARTA - Minister of Public Works (PU) Dody Hanggodo emphasized that the success of flood control in Jabodetabek is very dependent on the active role of local governments (Pemda), especially in land readiness and waste management.

Dody highlighted that the delay in the embankment and river normalization project was not only a technical matter, but also an administrative matter, especially in terms of land acquisition.

"We will definitely build and manage the flood control infrastructure, but without the land readiness of the local government, this project cannot run optimally," said Dody as quoted from his written statement, Thursday, March 6.

To date, the construction of embankments in the Bekasi River has only reached 13.8 kilometers from the total requirement of 33 kilometers. The normalization of the Ciliwung River has also only been realized 17 kilometers from the target of 33 kilometers.

According to Dody, many inundation points in settlements occur because water enters through areas that are not embankd, showing that the acceleration of this project is very much needed.

Apart from land, the waste problem is also a serious concern for Dody. He reminded that even though the infrastructure has been built, if rivers and waterways continue to be filled with garbage, it is feared that the flood control system will not be optimal.

He has also instructed the Directorate General of Water Resources of the Ministry of Public Works to immediately coordinate with the regent, regional secretary and governor regarding land acquisition and waste management. If the local government does not move quickly, he admits that he is ready to intervene directly.

"I will maximize the active role of the local government, especially in land readiness. If this does not move, yes, I will intervene," said Dody.

The cadre of the Democratic Party assessed that the flood problem could not be separated from the local government managed housing system.

Therefore, in addition to supporting the construction of embankments, the local government is also obliged to care for and maintain existing infrastructure so that it remains functioning in the future.

With a strong synergy between the central and regional governments, Dody is optimistic that flood control efforts in Jabodetabek can be more effective, reduce the impact of flooding in the rainy season and improve security for residents.

It is known that Dody made his visit to the flood control infrastructure in Bekasi Dam and Ciliwung Sodetan on Wednesday, March 5.

During the visit, Dody was accompanied by Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti, Secretary General of the Ministry of Public Works Mohammad Zainal Fatah, Director General of Water Resources of the Ministry of Public Works Lilik Retno Cahyadiningsih, Director of River and Beach Dwi Purwantoro and Acting Head of BBWS Ciliwung Cisadane Ferdinandto.