Jakarta Pursues River Normalization Alongside Naturalization to Combat Flooding
Jakarta is moving forward with a dual-track strategy to address its chronic flooding issues, embracing both river normalization and naturalization techniques. Experts suggest that a combined approach, tailored to specific conditions, offers the most effective path toward mitigating flood risk in the sprawling Indonesian capital.
A researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) emphasized that the two methods are not mutually exclusive. “There should be no conflicting views on which is better, naturalization or river normalization. Both can be implemented when necessary,” the researcher stated during a discussion on February 4, 2026, at the BJ Habibie Building in Central Jakarta.
The decision comes as Jakarta struggles with limited drainage capacity, able to handle only around 150 millimeters of rainfall per day before widespread flooding occurs. Governor Pramono Anung recently announced plans to normalize the Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cakung Lama rivers as a key component of the city’s flood control efforts. He acknowledged that even with these measures, flood management remains essential if rainfall exceeds 200 mm.
Normalization, which involves widening, deepening, dredging, and reinforcing riverbanks, is being prioritized for areas where land availability is limited. According to a senior official, this approach offers a rapid and measurable impact on increasing river drainage capacity, particularly in critical downstream segments. The Jakarta government views it as a medium- to long-term solution.
However, the researcher cautioned that naturalization – restoring a river to its natural state – should be considered where land permits. “Where there is no land, normalization is sufficient. But if there is usable land, it can be returned to naturalization. That’s my view. The handling varies depending on the case,” they explained.
The need for intervention is underscored by the significant alterations to Jakarta’s waterways. Cyril Raoul Hakim, a special staff member to the Governor, noted that silting, sedimentation, and construction along riverbanks have constricted flow and reduced the capacity to manage rainwater runoff. “The narrow width of the river further limits its capacity,” Hakim said on January 28, 2026, adding that normalization represents a “concrete medium- to long-term solution” to the city’s annual flooding problems.
The city’s strategy echoes similar efforts in neighboring Bekasi, which is also undertaking river normalization projects to address recurring floods.
This multifaceted approach signals a commitment to long-term resilience in the face of increasing climate challenges and urban development pressures.
