In a bid to combat the severe flooding and sinking of Jakarta, Indonesia’s government has embarked on the Garuda Sea Wall project, a $10.5 billion engineering marvel. The ambitious project aims to protect and transform the city’s landscape, marking a significant step towards securing Jakarta’s future against the relentless encroachment of the sea.
The Problem: Jakarta is Sinking
According to a video by The Impossible Build, Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, is sinking at an alarming rate of 12 centimeters per year. This rapid subsidence, coupled with rising sea levels, has created a dire situation for the city’s over 10 million residents. The primary causes include the weight of numerous skyscrapers and shopping malls, widespread groundwater extraction due to water shortages, and the relentless rise of the Java Sea.
The Garuda Sea Wall: A Colossal Undertaking
The Garuda Sea Wall project is a groundbreaking solution to Jakarta’s sinking problem. Spanning 40 kilometers and standing 24 meters tall, this colossal sea wall is designed to shield Jakarta from flooding. According to the video, the wall will not only serve as a barrier but also transform into a bustling urban space with residential areas, industrial zones, and green parks. This multi-functional design aims to support sustainable urban development while protecting the city.
Phases of Construction: A Step-by-Step Approach
The construction of the Garuda Sea Wall is divided into three major phases. The first phase, expected to be completed by 2030, involves building a preliminary sea wall along 30 kilometers of Jakarta’s coast. This phase has a budget of $10.5 billion and focuses on providing immediate protection against flooding. The second phase will extend and reinforce the wall, covering more flood-prone areas. The final phase, set for completion by 2040, will involve constructing the main sections of the wall and 17 artificial islands to house an estimated 2 million people.
Advanced Engineering and Innovative Solutions
Building a structure of this magnitude requires cutting-edge technology and innovative engineering solutions. According to The Impossible Build, the foundation of the sea wall will be constructed using reinforced concrete and steel pilings to withstand the harsh marine environment. Prefabrication methods will reduce construction time and minimize disruption. Additionally, an integrated floodgate system will manage water levels from Jakarta’s 13 rivers, preventing the accumulation of water behind the wall.
Addressing Water Issues: A Freshwater Reservoir
Jakarta’s reliance on groundwater extraction has exacerbated its sinking problem. To address this, the Garuda Sea Wall will include a freshwater reservoir to collect and store rainwater and river water. This sustainable water source aims to reduce the need for groundwater extraction, providing clean water for the city’s residents.
Environmental Concerns and Safeguards
Despite its ambitious goals, the Garuda Sea Wall project raises environmental concerns. Critics worry about the impact on marine ecosystems and local fisheries. The project includes extensive environmental studies and safeguards, such as fish passes and mangrove restoration areas, to support local biodiversity. The floodgates are designed to allow natural water flow, minimizing disruption to the marine environment.
Challenges and Feasibility
The Garuda Sea Wall project faces numerous challenges. Critics argue that the wall might not address the root causes of Jakarta’s sinking, such as groundwater extraction and rapid urbanization. There are also concerns about the project’s feasibility and the ability to raise the necessary funds. However, the project remains a lifeline for Jakarta’s future, offering robust protection and opportunities for sustainable urban development.
“Not Going to Happen”
People in the comments shared their thoughts: “its not going to happen. Dubai tried the artificial island experiment and it failed spectacularly”
Some corrected the video: “java sea is not rising by as much as 2m per year, if that was the case we would all be underwater pretty soon.”
Another commenter had some questions: “Whatever happened to the plan to move the capital from Jakarta to a new city on Borneo island?”
A Beacon of Hope for Jakarta
Once completed, the Garuda Sea Wall will not only protect Jakarta from flooding and land subsidence but also create new opportunities for sustainable urban development. This colossal structure embodies the strength and protection symbolized by the mythical bird Garuda, offering hope for Jakarta’s future amidst its looming catastrophe.
Ecological Impact
What do you think? How do you think the Garuda Sea Wall will impact Jakarta’s local communities and their livelihoods? Considering the environmental concerns, do you believe the benefits of the Garuda Sea Wall outweigh its potential ecological impact? What alternative solutions could be explored to address Jakarta’s sinking problem and rising sea levels?
Explore the full insights by viewing the video on The Impossible Build’s YouTube channel here.