After the Sulteng earthquake, Minister PU Soroti Potential Danger of Water Basin in the Upper River

JAKARTA - Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo highlighted the potential dangers in the upstream river area while reviewing basic infrastructure after the 6.7 magnitude earthquake that shook Central Sulawesi.

One of the main concerns is the presence of a basin containing puddles of water which is considered to have the potential to cause a hydrometeorological disaster risk if it is not immediately mitigated.

The review was carried out on Sunday, June 21, by following the Palolo-Napu Alternative Road in Sigi Regency to ensure the condition of regional connectivity, the reliability of bridge infrastructure and clean water services for the community.

During the visit, Dody also reviewed the Posu Bridge which stretches across the Posu River, Sopu Village.

In addition to checking the condition of the bridge, he highlighted the condition of the upstream river area which has a basin containing water and is considered to need to be immediately mapped and mitigated.

According to him, the experience of handling disasters in a number of areas shows that basins that hold large amounts of water can be a threat when high rainfall occurs, including potentially triggering landslides and flash floods.

"I also saw a basin containing water at the top. This must be immediately mapped and mitigated. If there is a potential danger, we must check and anticipate from the beginning. We don't want to regret something that can actually be prevented," said Dody, quoted from a written statement, Tuesday, June 23.

Dody also instructed the Sulawesi III River Basin Agency (BWS) to conduct a follow-up survey to find out the actual conditions in the upstream area, including the possibility of treatment needs in the form of water flow control.

He cited the experience of the landslide in Majenang, Central Java, as a lesson in anticipating similar potential in other areas.

Apart from the aspect of disaster mitigation, the PU Ministry also ensures that basic infrastructure in the affected areas remains functional.

One of them is the Kamarora Drinking Water Supply System (SPAM) in Nokilalaki District which is still operating and serving the community's clean water needs during the post-disaster recovery period.