RRI.CO.ID, Banda Aceh - The Marine Affairs and Fisheries Ministry has officially launched an extensive technical survey to address severe sedimentation issues plaguing Aceh’s fishing estuaries. This strategic intervention follows a direct appeal from the Aceh Provincial Administration to mitigate recurring flood risks and revitalize the region's maritime economy, which has been hampered by shallow waterways.

The Director of Coastal and Small Island Spatial Utilization at the Ministry’s Marine Spatial Planning Directorate General, Permana Yudiarso, confirmed the mobilization in Banda Aceh on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

“We are following up on the Aceh Governor's request regarding the restoration of river mouths and fishing estuaries affected by heavy sedimentation,” said Permana, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that the initiative is a direct response to formal correspondence from the provincial administration highlighting how siltation has crippled local fishing activities.

The push for federal assistance was previously prioritized by Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf during the 2027 Regional Government Work Plan coordination meeting in late April. The Governor emphasized that dredging and estuary management are urgent necessities to prevent seasonal flooding that frequently submerges coastal settlements.

Over a three-day mission, the ministry will evaluate 13 critical fishery ports, including major hubs such as Lampulo in Banda Aceh, Idi in East Aceh, and Lambada in Aceh Besar.

The survey also encompasses vital maritime gateways across the province, including Kuala Tari and Kuala Peukan Baro in Pidie, as well as sites in Pidie Jaya, Bireuen, and Lhokseumawe.

Further assessments will be conducted at North Aceh’s Kuala Krueng Mane and several strategic points along the western coast, reaching as far as Aceh Singkil and Southwest Aceh. Governor Muzakir Manaf, popularly known as Mualem, reiterated that a comprehensive solution for Aceh’s estuaries is non-negotiable.

Aceh’s expansive coastline and the population’s deep economic reliance on the sea make the Ministry’s involvement a vital step for the province. This collaboration aims to safeguard the livelihoods of thousands of fishers and protect coastal communities from the threat of rising waters. ***