Ministry Accelerates Meureudu River Restoration to Prevent Flooding

RRI.CO.ID, Banda Aceh - The Indonesian Public Works Ministry, through the Sumatra I River Basin Agency (BWS), has launched a major emergency restoration project at the Meureudu River in Pidie Jaya, Aceh to prevent future flood disasters in the region.

As reported by Antara, this move shifts the focus from simple cleanup to a comprehensive structural recovery after recent environmental damage choked the river's natural flow.

"The intervention is focused on river normalization through sediment dredging and the clearing of timber and debris that obstruct the water flow," remarked Asyari, Head of BWS Sumatera I, in Banda Aceh on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

He emphasized that his team is moving rapidly with emergency response measures at the site. This action reflects the government's commitment to minimizing public impact and protecting vital infrastructure along the riverbanks.

The technical core of the issue lies in the accumulation of debris within the riverbed. This buildup has significantly reduced the river's carrying capacity and heightened the risk of overflows during heavy rainfall.

To combat this, BWS Sumatera I is dredging the river and repairing several damaged embankments. These structures were previously breached or weakened by high-intensity water levels.

"We are currently repairing the embankments because many sections have broken and need to be resealed immediately," explained Asyari.

A heavy-duty fleet has been deployed to the site to accelerate the normalization process, including nine excavators, five dump trucks, and one wheel loader.

Asyari noted that these repairs are designed to strengthen the river’s cliffs and smoothen the current. This work is vital for protecting nearby residential areas and public facilities from the threat of flooding.

While the current emergency phase serves as a short-term shield, it is also the foundation for a more permanent, large-scale engineering solution.

"The Ministry is committed to remaining present in safeguarding the region's water resources. This effort aims to ensure the safety of residents in disaster-prone areas, particularly in Pidie Jaya and its surroundings," he asserted.

At this stage, crews remain focused on clearing wooden waste and stabilizing the levees to mitigate the risks of potential follow-up floods. Looking ahead, the project will transition into a full-scale rehabilitation and reconstruction phase.

"This will eventually be followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation and reconstruction phase. The planned work includes the construction of upstream sabo dams, middle-section cliff reinforcement, and downstream estuary repairs," concluded Asyari. ***