Jakarta Flooding: River Normalization vs Naturalization – Which is Better?

Jakarta Pursues Combined Approach to Flood Control: Normalization and Naturalization Equally Effective

Jakarta, Indonesia – As Jakarta continues to grapple with persistent flooding, authorities are moving forward with a strategy that combines traditional river normalization with more ecologically-minded naturalization efforts. According to research from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), both approaches are equally effective in controlling floods, provided they are implemented correctly.

Budi Heru Santosa, an Associate Researcher at BRIN’s Limnology and Water Resources Research Center, stated on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, “There should be no conflicting views on which is better, naturalization or river normalization. Both can be implemented when necessary.” He clarified that the optimal method depends on the specific circumstances, noting that normalization is suitable where land is limited, while naturalization can be prioritized where usable land is available.

The announcement comes as Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has outlined plans to normalize three key rivers – the Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cakung Lama – as a central component of the city’s flood mitigation strategy. Pramono Anung aims to complete the Ciliwung River normalization by 2026.

Jakarta’s Limited Rainfall Capacity

Governor Anung has emphasized the urgency of the situation, pointing out that Jakarta’s infrastructure can currently only manage approximately 150 millimeters of rainfall per day before widespread flooding occurs. He acknowledged that even with these improvements, flood management remains essential if rainfall exceeds 200 mm.

Why Normalization is Being Prioritized

The Jakarta government is prioritizing river normalization due to its perceived ability to deliver a rapid and measurable increase in river drainage capacity. This involves widening, deepening, dredging, and reinforcing river walls – interventions designed to quickly reduce flooding in downstream areas. Officials view normalization as a medium- to long-term solution for critical segments of the river system.

Cyril Raoul Hakim, Special Staff for Public Communications to the Governor, explained that the current state of Jakarta’s rivers – hampered by silting, sedimentation, and encroachment from buildings – has significantly reduced their capacity to handle rainwater and runoff. “The narrow width of the river further limits its capacity,” he said on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The Role of Naturalization

While normalization is currently taking precedence, BRIN’s research suggests that naturalization – restoring rivers to a more natural state – is equally valuable. Budi Heru Santosa explained that the choice between the two methods should be context-dependent. “Where there is no land, normalization is sufficient. But if there is usable land, it can be returned to naturalization. That’s my view. The handling varies depending on the case,” he said.

The combined approach reflects a growing recognition that a holistic strategy is needed to address Jakarta’s complex flooding challenges. The government hopes that by increasing river capacity through normalization and incorporating natural elements where possible, it can build a more resilient and sustainable flood management system.

Discussions regarding the Ciliwung River normalization were recently held between Pramono Anung and Basuki Tjahaja Purnama (Ahok) to tackle Jakarta Floods.