Bekasi Regency Issues First Warning for Illegal Structures on Balong Tua Canal

The Bekasi Regency government has initiated the process of clearing illegal structures along the Balong Tua secondary canal, starting with the issuance of the first warning letters. Owners of these structures in the Sukatani and Tambelang sub-districts received the notices on Tuesday.

Surya Wijaya, Head of the Bekasi Regency Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), stated that this step is a precursor to physical enforcement. The operation is being conducted in collaboration with the Citarum River Basin Management Agency (BBWS Citarum), Perum Jasa Tirta (PJT) II, and local sub-district officials. Wijaya explained that the current phase follows a warning letter previously issued by PJT II and is a result of a coordination meeting to enforce regulations along the canal's boundaries.

“

Today, together with BBWS Citarum, Perum Jasa Tirta II, and sub-district officials, we are delivering warning letters to the owners of illegal structures along the Balong Tua SS as a stage before enforcement begins.

The illegal structures span approximately 4.5 kilometers, from the Hilir River Weir (BSH 1) in Sukatani to Tambelang. All buildings situated on the canal's boundaries will be documented according to standard procedures. The agency assures that the process will be carried out with a persuasive and humane approach, giving residents time to comply before physical demolition.

Beyond enforcing regulations, the operation seeks to restore the canal's primary function as an irrigation channel and prevent flooding caused by the narrowed waterway. The government urges public support for this effort, emphasizing its importance for water resource infrastructure vital to agriculture, flood control, and environmental sustainability. Officials expressed confidence that the operation, from its current stages to physical enforcement, will proceed in an orderly, safe, and conducive manner.

“

This is how it has always been. And that’s how it always will be.