Surabaya is taking decisive steps to tackle its persistent flooding issues with the initiation of the Kalianak River normalization project. The project is part of the Surabaya City Government's strategy aimed at improving drainage and safeguarding nearby communities from the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall.
On February 4, 2025, officials began marking boundaries along the Kalianak River, delineation which is intended to prepare for the normalization process. According to M Fikser, the Head of the City Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), this boundary marking serves as the groundwork for subsequent actions, which will include the dismantling of illegal structures encroaching on the river. "Kami sudah mulai memberikan tanda batas ruang sungai. Setelah ini, akan dilakukan penertiban bangunan di area tersebut. Respon mereka cukup baik selama sosialisasi," Fikser stated, reflecting on the community's reaction to the government's outreach efforts.
The Kalianak River, stretching approximately three kilometers across the districts of Asemrowo and Krembangan, has seen its width significantly reduced by unauthorized construction. From a previously consistent width of 30 meters, it has narrowed drastically due to various buildings obstructing water flow. The normalization effort aims to restore the river's capacity and mitigate flood risks.
Commencing on February 24, 2025, the normalization will involve several targeted initiatives. The initial phase focuses on the first 600 meters of the river, where heavy machinery will be deployed to facilitate dredging and clear debris. Irna Pawanti, who oversees public order controls, explained the logistics behind the project: "Normalisasi Sungai Kalianak tersebut akan dimulai dengan tahap awal dengan pengerjaan di 600 meter pertama... Alat berat sudah masuk di titik nol Sungai Kalianak, kami mulai di 600 meter pertama..." This segment will be executed over three months, with specific monitoring and checkpoints to manage progress.
Prior to the actual restoration work, the municipal officials are actively marking structures for demolition. Every building identified as infringing the river's boundary is being flagged. Currently, around 87 residences have been marked with red paint, signaling to owners the impending need to relocate their belongings. "Hari ini sudah 87 rumah yang kami beri tanda," noted Pawanti. She urged residents to begin moving their possessions, assuring them, "Pemerintah Kota siap membantu warga untuk mengevakuasi barang-barang milik warga." This collaborative approach aims not only to facilitate the normalization process but also to maintain community support and involvement.
The city's efforts extend beyond just the removal of structures. After the normalization process, plans include constructing embankments on both sides of the river and establishing pump houses at the northern end of the Kalianak Bridge. These developments will significantly contribute to controlling water levels and improving flood management. Windo Gusman Prasetyo, Head of Drainage at the Department of Water Resources and Roads, conveyed optimism about the entire initiative, hoping it will lead to more effective flood control measures and reduced waterlogging issues for local residents.
This normalization project highlights the proactive measures being adopted by Surabaya's local government against natural calamities exacerbated by urban development. With commitment from both city planners and community members, the Kalianak River normalization holds promise for future sustainability and enhanced security against the recurring threat of floods.