Jakarta officials are pursuing river normalization as a key strategy to mitigate annual flooding, a problem exacerbated by limited drainage capacity. The decision follows an assessment that the city can currently manage approximately 150 millimeters of rainfall per day before widespread flooding occurs.
Approaches to Jakarta’s Flood Risk
Both river naturalization and normalization are considered effective methods for addressing Jakarta’s river problems and controlling flooding, according to Budi Heru Santosa, an Associate Researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Santosa stated on February 4, 2026, that the choice between the two depends on the specific circumstances.
Normalization, which involves widening, deepening, dredging, and reinforcing river walls, is seen as a quicker solution for increasing drainage capacity, particularly in areas where land availability is limited. Naturalization, restoring a river to its natural state, is considered appropriate where usable land exists.
Governor Pramono Anung indicated that even with normalization efforts, flood management will remain essential if rainfall exceeds 200 millimeters. The current policy is based on the city’s existing capacity to handle 150 millimeters of rainfall.
Factors Contributing to Flooding
According to Cyril Raoul Hakim, Special Staff to the Governor for Public Communications, silting, sedimentation, and construction along riverbanks have constricted the natural flow of water, reducing the rivers’ ability to accommodate rainfall and runoff. This narrowing of the rivers contributes to the annual flooding issues.
The Jakarta government views normalization as a “concrete medium- to long-term solution” to the recurring flooding problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rivers are targeted for normalization?
The Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cakung Lama rivers are the three rivers in Jakarta that Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to normalize.
What rainfall amount currently overwhelms Jakarta’s capacity?
Jakarta’s current infrastructure can accommodate around 150 millimeters of rainfall per day. Rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters requires flood management measures.
According to BRIN, are naturalization and normalization mutually exclusive?
No, Budi Heru Santosa of BRIN stated that both river naturalization and river normalization are equally effective and can be implemented when necessary, depending on the specific conditions.
As Jakarta moves forward with its normalization plans, it remains to be seen how effectively these measures will mitigate the impact of future rainfall events and protect the city from flooding.
