Jakarta, the bustling capital of Indonesia, faces an escalating battle against flooding and land subsidence, prompting urgent measures to safeguard its future. A recent study published in ‘Jurnal Teknik Hidraulik’ delves into the National Capital Integrated Coastal Development Program (NCICD), a comprehensive initiative aimed at constructing coastal dikes to protect the city. The lead author of the study, Hari Suprayogi from the Directorate General of Water Resources, emphasizes the critical nature of this project as Jakarta grapples with alarming rates of land subsidence, sinking between 2 to 20 centimeters annually.
The NCICD program is structured in three phases, with the critical phase focusing on immediate flood protection through the construction of sea dikes. “The sea dike construction is projected to protect Jakarta until 2030,” Suprayogi notes. This urgent construction effort is particularly concentrated in the areas of Muara Kamal, Kalibaru, and Muara Baru, where approximately 48% of the physical construction has already progressed along a total length of 4.8 kilometers. The need for these structures is underscored by the dense population in these regions, where many residents are at risk from flooding.
The dikes are designed using a spoon-pile method, extending between 50 to 100 meters into the sea, with a crest level set at +4.8 meters from the Lowest Water Spring. This design not only ensures efficiency in space utilization but also minimizes potential social conflicts that could arise from construction activities. “The space between the mainland and the spoon pile will be nourished by sand to create public infrastructure, such as parks,” Suprayogi explains, highlighting a dual benefit of the project—flood protection and enhanced public amenities.
The commercial implications of this research are significant for the construction sector. As Jakarta continues to invest heavily in infrastructure to combat climate-related challenges, opportunities abound for construction firms specializing in coastal engineering, materials, and innovative design solutions. The urgency of the NCICD program could lead to a surge in demand for skilled labor and advanced construction technologies, potentially reshaping the industry landscape in Indonesia.
As the study outlines, the materials used for the dikes are pivotal for stability, preventing scouring, and mitigating wave energy impact. This focus on robust engineering practices is likely to set a benchmark for future coastal projects not only in Indonesia but in other regions facing similar challenges.
The findings from this research serve as a clarion call for stakeholders in the construction industry. With Jakarta’s ongoing struggle against flooding and subsidence, the NCICD program represents a critical investment in urban resilience, paving the way for innovative solutions that could inspire similar initiatives globally. This study underscores the importance of proactive measures in urban planning and infrastructure development, ensuring that cities like Jakarta can adapt to the realities of climate change while fostering economic growth.
For more insights into this crucial research, visit the Directorate General of Water Resources at lead_author_affiliation.