PU Minister asks that drainage in Papua be guarded due to unpredictable weather patterns

Minister PU Dody Hanggodo (Photo: PU Ministry)

JAKARTA - Minister of Public Works (PU) Dody Hanggodo asked that the drainage system in Papua, especially in the South Papua Provincial Government Center (KPP), be seriously maintained as the changing weather patterns become more uncertain.

This was conveyed when reviewing the progress of the South Papua KPP construction at the Mandiri Integrated Area (KTM) Salor, Merauke Regency, not long ago.

The review was carried out to ensure that the development of the South Papua New Autonomous Region (DOB) area was carried out according to plan and paid attention to the aspect of infrastructure sustainability.

On this occasion, Dody emphasized the readiness of drainage as an important factor to anticipate the potential for puddles and floods, even though the Merauke area has always been known to be relatively dry.

"I entrust the Cipta Karya, Water Resources and National Road Implementation Office, the drainage must be properly maintained. Do not let it cause puddles when it rains. Although this area is known to be relatively dry, we still have to anticipate because the weather pattern is now changing," said Dody as quoted from a written statement, Tuesday, February 10.

Dody assessed that the maintenance and supervision of the drainage system must be an integral part of the development of the area, so that the South Papua Provincial Government can function optimally in the long term without being disturbed by flood problems.

The construction of the South Papua Provincial KPP includes the Governor's Office, the DPRD Building, the Papua People's Assembly (MRP) Building, the Drinking Water Supply System (SPAM) and the piping network.

Then, there is the Integrated Waste Disposal Site (TPST), the Sewage Sludge Treatment Facility (IPLT) and land development work.

The work includes land preparation, accessibility of the area, drainage system, basic utilities and environmental arrangement.

On that occasion, Dody also appreciated the progress in the development of supporting infrastructure for the South Papua KPP, which was considered to show significant progress since it began in 2024.

"I landed in the afternoon, I immediately took the time to look at the location. I was not surprised, the progress was good," he said.

In addition to the government area, Dody ensured that a number of roads leading to the South Papua KPP that have not been handled will be completed gradually in the 2026 Fiscal Year (TA) to support connectivity and accessibility of the area.

During his working visit to Merauke, Dody also reviewed the progress of the development of the National Food, Energy and Water Self-sufficient Area (KSPEAN) in Wanam.

"We will dialogue with local farmers to absorb aspirations and ensure that infrastructure support can be provided in accordance with authority," he added.