Jakarta, March 6 (ANTARA) - Jakarta governor Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has demanded starting the construction of the giant sea wall in 2014.

"This year, I hope studies on the giant sea wall would finish so that its construction could be started in 2014. Do not take it too long," he said at a press conference after a meeting at the office of the coordinating minister of economic affairs here on Wednesday.

Based on the initial plan the project, aimed at overcoming flood problems of the city, is scheduled to be started in 2020. Jokowi thought that it is too late and has asked for its speedier implementation.

The project, according to the governor, costs up to Rp280 trillion and so he would ask private parties to take part in the project.

"Many investors have expressed their interest to join in the development of the huge dyke because of its economic and business aspects. So, we will not only use national and regional budgets but also involve private parties in it," he said.

With regard to the project the Jakarta government will carry out reclamation in the North Jakarta coast to create more than 4,000 hectares of land.

Coordinating minister for economic affairs Hatta Rajasa on the occasion expressed his agreement to Jokowi`s s proposal to accelerate the development of the wall.

"We will accelerate the project. It is hoped the ground breaking could be started in 2014. So, we may not need to wait until 20920 to implement it," he said.

Hatta said private parties would be prioritized for the project based on an investment scheme so that it would rely too much on national or regional budgets for its funding.

The meeting was also attended by public works minister Djoko Kirmanto, head of Jakarta`s regional development planning board Sarwo Handayani and Jakarta administration`s assistant for environment and development Wiriyatmoko. (*)

Editor: Heru Purwanto
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