President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) inspected the construction of a flood mitigation embankment constructed by using sand-filled geotextile tubes in Ladang Sub-district, Sintang District, West Kalimantan Province, on Wednesday.
Geotextile tubes are large tubular bags made of a porous and weather-resistant geotextile filled with sediment, such as sand, to form artificial dunes or embankments.
“We expect that the attempt can reduce flooding for the short term,” the president remarked.
He attributed the disaster to several factors, including extreme rainfall and damaged watersheds as well as water catchment areas.
Hence, he urged to conduct reforestation in the areas around Kapuas River and Melawi River.
“I am optimistic that it would improve the condition in the water catchment areas and watersheds, especially in the upstream regions,” Jokowi stated.
Furthermore, he urged the Environment and Forestry Ministry and large private companies in West Kalimantan Province to establish tree seedling nurseries.
“Thus, reforestation can run well,” he stated.
Meanwhile, in terms of the medium-term flood handling attempts, the Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Ministry will dredge the surrounding lakes, structure the drainage system in the Kapuas River, and create a major flood control plan.
For the long-term endeavors, the government will build the Pinoh River Dam and conduct periodic revitalization of rivers and lakes in the Kapuas River watersheds.
After inspecting the embankment, Jokowi headed to the Sintang Health Detachment and witnessed the handing of social assistance, public kitchen car, and rubber boat.
The disaster struck on October 21, 2021, and lasted for about a month after heavy rains caused the Kapuas River and Melawi River to overflow, thereby affecting over 124 thousand people.
During the visit, the head of state was accompanied by PUPR Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, State Secretary Minister Pratikno, Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini, and Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, as well as several related officials.
Source: Antara News