RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The West Jakarta City Administration has launched a specialized trial using Ecotru bacteria to address severe water pollution in the Western Primary Central (SPB) connecting channel in Puri Kembangan. The initiative, conducted on Thursday, March 26, 2026, aims to revitalize the city's waterways through advanced bioremediation.

West Jakarta's Assistant for Economy and Development Imron Syahrin, explained that the trial currently utilizes a sampling method to monitor the bacteria's impact.

“We took samples to observe developments over the next five days after mixing with Ecotru bacteria. We want to see if there are significant changes,” Imron said, as quoted by Antara.

Ecotru bacteria are known for their high durability, capable of thriving in temperatures up to 60°C. They are specifically engineered to tolerate extreme levels of Methylene Blue Active Substances (MBAS), common in detergents, up to 20,000 units.

The city is currently coordinating with the West Jakarta Environment Sub-department (Sudin LH) to map MBAS levels across various rivers.

“If MBAS levels are found to be very high, we will find the source, whether from household waste or factories. Our target is to collaborate to make all rivers in West Jakarta clearer,” Imron added.

Eka Lestari Sinaga, Director of PT Esa Maha Karya Tunggal and a collaborator on the project, noted that initial observations of the channel revealed high levels of oil, grease, and thick sediment. The presence of foam in the water indicates either high soap content or the ongoing decomposition of dissolved organic waste.

The bioremediation process requires the Ecotru bacteria to be prepared for 24 hours before being introduced into the water. Beyond cleaning the water, the treatment has a secondary benefit: the elimination of pests.

“These bacteria stop the organic decay process that damages the environment. Because the water becomes cleaner and there are no more decay, flies and maggots will live there,” Eka explained.

By halting organic rot, the project hopes to not only improve water clarity but also enhance the overall hygiene and smell of the surrounding residential and commercial areas in Puri Kembangan. ***