Pesticide Fire Contaminates Cisadane River, Spreading Pollution 22.5 Kilometers
A major environmental incident is unfolding in the Tangerang region of Indonesia, as the Cisadane River has become heavily contaminated with pesticides following a fire at a warehouse belonging to PT Biotek Saranatama. Authorities report the pollution has spread across 22.5 kilometers, impacting multiple municipalities and causing significant harm to aquatic life.
The incident began last Monday, February 9th, 2026, with a fire at a pesticide factory in Setu District, South Tangerang City. Firefighters required seven hours and two truckloads of sand to extinguish the blaze, which originated from chemical compounds. The subsequent runoff from extinguishing efforts, combined with the burning of approximately 20 tons of pesticides – specifically cypermethrin and profenofos – has resulted in widespread contamination.
Ecological Damage and Public Health Concerns
The Ministry of Environment (KLH) has confirmed the devastating impact on the river’s ecosystem. Numerous species of aquatic life have been found dead, including goldfish, baung fish, catfish, tilapia, and broomstick fish. The KLH/BPLH (Environmental Control Agency) is currently collecting and analyzing water samples from both upstream and downstream locations along the Cisadane River, as well as from the Jaletreng River and groundwater sources. Ten samples of dead fish have been collected for toxicological analysis.
A senior official stated, “We will investigate this case through a series of laboratory tests and scientific studies.” Authorities are urging residents living near the affected waterways to avoid using the river water for any purpose, warning of potential skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems if vapors are inhaled.
Government Response and Clean Water Efforts
The South Tangerang City Government (Pemkot Tangsel) is actively monitoring the situation and working to ensure the safety of the local water supply. According to Mayor Benyamin Davnie, the city has coordinated with clean water managers to maintain safe distribution.
“The City Government has coordinated with related parties, including clean water managers, to ensure safe distribution,” Mayor Davnie told reporters on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026. The Perkimta Department, in conjunction with the BPBD (Regional Disaster Management Agency), has deployed a fleet of water tank trucks to provide free clean water to affected residents.
The long-term consequences of this environmental disaster remain to be seen, but the immediate priority is to contain the pollution, assess the full extent of the damage, and protect public health. Further investigation and remediation efforts will be crucial to restoring the health of the Cisadane River and preventing similar incidents in the future.
