"It is vital that we bring order to riverbanks and riparian zones, including addressing such areas with existing buildings and tenure rights," he remarked during a press conference in Jakarta on Monday.
Wahid emphasized that the government recognizes the need for prudence in restoring the functionality of these areas, highlighting the importance of assessing and preparing compensations for each affected building.
In this regard, he revealed that the ATR Ministry had identified 124 plots of land with buildings along the banks of the Bekasi River.
Wahid affirmed that his ministry would continue to collect data on such land in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works and regional governments.
The minister then drew attention to riverbank buildings without tenure rights documents, assuring the government would adopt a humane approach while dealing with individuals associated with these illegal structures.
"The government should not act arbitrarily towards its constituents. Therefore, we will adopt a humane approach," he remarked, noting that the government may offer specific compensation funds to the affected individuals.
He made these statements after a meeting with Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti and West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi at Kusumastuti's office in Jakarta.
During the same press conference, Governor Mulyadi observed that the meeting marked progress in addressing issues related to flooding in his province.
"Today, we began discussing technical matters, such as rehabilitation efforts, moving beyond emergency measures. We welcome all initiatives proposed by the ATR minister and will work to prepare the necessary reference framework," he stated.
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Translator: Aji C, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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