javaprivatetour.com – Welcome to the tropical paradise that is Indonesia, where Jakarta stands tall as one of the most bustling cities. However, beneath the surface, this megacity is facing a silent yet serious problem—it’s sinking, and fast. You might wonder: “How much does Jakarta sink each year?” Well, it’s a pressing question that captures global attention, particularly with rising sea levels and the alarming impact of climate change. According to the World Economic Forum (WEF), Jakarta is currently sinking by up to 17 cm annually. Let’s explore why this is happening and what’s being done to save Jakarta from its watery fate.
The Alarming Rate of Jakarta’s Subsidence
Jakarta’s sinking rate is among the fastest in the world, with certain areas losing up to 25 cm annually. The northern parts of the city, which are mostly below sea level, are particularly vulnerable. Factors such as excessive groundwater extraction and rapid urbanization contribute to this phenomenon. In fact, parts of North Jakarta have sunk by an alarming 2.5 meters over the past decade alone.
Causes of Jakarta’s Sinking Problem
To understand Jakarta’s subsidence, we need to delve into the key factors contributing to this situation.
1. Groundwater Extraction
- Jakarta relies heavily on groundwater due to limited access to piped water. The city pumps vast amounts of groundwater to meet daily demands, which leads to soil compaction and land subsidence.
- Solutions like rainwater harvesting and imposing restrictions on groundwater extraction have been proposed, but enforcement remains a challenge.
2. Urban Development and Poor Planning
- Rapid, unchecked urbanization exacerbates Jakarta’s sinking problem. As new buildings and infrastructure are developed, natural water recharge areas are destroyed.
- Without a comprehensive urban planning strategy that considers groundwater recharge, the city continues to sink under its own weight.
3. Climate Change and Rising Sea Levels
- Global warming has intensified the melting of polar ice caps, which in turn raises sea levels. This compounds Jakarta’s woes, as it is already sinking and now has to contend with rising waters.
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts sea levels could rise by up to 0.3 meters by the year 2100, further endangering low-lying areas.
The Ciliwung Diversion and Its Role in Flood Control
One of the significant efforts to combat Jakarta’s flooding is the Ciliwung River diversion project. This 1.26-kilometer-long tunnel channels excess water from the Ciliwung River to the East Flood Canal, helping mitigate flooding during peak rainy seasons. Although this helps to control surface flooding, it does not directly address subsidence issues.
Learning from Dutch Engineering: A Canal City
Jakarta’s history with Dutch colonial engineering left it with an intricate canal system, reminiscent of Amsterdam. When the Dutch settled in Batavia (now Jakarta), they faced similar flooding issues. They implemented a canal system to divert floodwaters, which worked well for a time. However, as the city expanded, the system struggled to keep up. Today, Jakarta faces the challenge of updating these colonial-era structures to suit a rapidly modernizing city.
The Jakarta Flood Canals: West and East Flood Canals
Jakarta’s extensive flood control strategy includes two primary canals: the West Flood Canal (Kanal Banjir Barat, or KBB) and the East Flood Canal (Kanal Banjir Timur, or KBT). Both are essential to managing Jakarta’s water flow and mitigating flood risks in different parts of the city.
West Flood Canal (Kanal Banjir Barat – KBB)
The construction of the West Flood Canal dates back to 1913 and was initially referred to as the Kanal Banjir Kali Malang. Proposed by Prof. Ir. Hendrik van Breen, this canal was based on thorough research into Batavia’s (now Jakarta) river systems. Originally stretching from Matraman to Karet, this canal channels overflow from the Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cideng Rivers, eventually reaching Kali Angke and flowing out to sea. The primary purpose of KBB was to protect key areas of the city, including Menteng, Gambir, Senen, Harmoni, Kota, Pasar Ikan, and Priok, by diverting floodwaters away from populated regions.
East Flood Canal (Kanal Banjir Timur – KBT)
Built to protect the East and North Jakarta areas, the East Flood Canal addresses overflow from rivers such as the Cipinang, Sunter, Buaran, Jatikramat, and Cakung rivers, which often exceed capacity during peak rainy seasons. Covering a drainage area of approximately 207 square kilometers, KBT is designed to alleviate flooding in 13 flood-prone areas, shielding residential, industrial, and warehouse districts from high water levels. Beyond flood prevention, KBT also aids in groundwater recharge, serves as a source of raw water, and even supports water transportation.
These canals demonstrate Jakarta’s long-term commitment to flood mitigation, with each canal system playing a critical role in safeguarding the city from the threats of excessive rainfall and rising sea levels.
What’s Being Done?
The Indonesian government is undertaking ambitious projects to save Jakarta:
- National Capital Relocation: There are plans to move the capital from Jakarta to Borneo, which will relieve some pressure but doesn’t solve the problem entirely.
- The Giant Sea Wall Project: This $40 billion project aims to build a massive seawall around Jakarta Bay. It will protect against rising sea levels and help prevent coastal flooding.
- The NCICD Plan: The National Capital Integrated Coastal Development (NCICD) aims to enhance existing infrastructure, build new sea walls, and improve water management systems.
Why Java Private Tour is the Best Choice for Foreign Tourists
When exploring Jakarta and the broader island of Java, why not go with a team that knows the ins and outs of the land? Java Private Tour offers services that cater to all your travel needs, with guides fluent in English and highly knowledgeable about local history, culture, and the unique environmental challenges of Jakarta. Java Private Tour provides flexibility and a custom-tailored experience, with guides who are not only friendly but also possess a deep understanding of Jakarta’s rich history and current issues. Additionally, Java Private Tour offers licensed and certified guides and a range of private vehicles to suit any group size, from sedans and vans to full-sized buses.
For first-time visitors to Java, Java Private Tour is your ideal travel partner, offering both adventure and insights, tailored exactly to your preferences. With endorsements from various embassies, you can rest assured that you’re in capable hands.
So, if you’re ready to explore the wonders of Jakarta and witness firsthand the complex story of this sinking city, head over to Java Private Tour and let’s start planning your adventure. Or you can simply click this link: Chat with Us on WhatsApp to get in touch right away.
With Java Private Tour, you’re not just getting a guide; you’re gaining a friend who will ensure your trip is nothing short of extraordinary. See you in Java!
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