Removing Illegal Sea Fence in Tangerang: Indonesian Navy Takes Action
Jakarta – The Indonesian Navy (TNI) has taken decisive action to remove an illegal bamboo sea fence spanning 30.16 kilometers in the coastal area of Tangerang District, Banten, following orders from President Prabowo Subianto. Commander of the TNI AL Main Base III Brigadier Gen. Harry Indarto expressed that the primary goal is to restore access to the sea for local fishermen, who have been impeded by the unauthorized barrier.
Operation Details and Challenges
Navy’s Removal Strategy
Brigadier Gen. Indarto revealed that the removal operation will target at least two kilometers of the fence daily, despite facing significant challenges. The bamboo stalks, firmly anchored to the seabed for months, pose a formidable obstacle due to the shallow waters where they are situated. As a result, the navy cannot utilize its primary vessels for assistance, necessitating the use of small boats and cooperation with fishermen for manual extraction.
Collaboration with Fishermen
In a display of solidarity, the TNI AL has chosen to work closely with local fishermen throughout the removal process. By enlisting their help in pulling out the fence using ropes attached to boats, the navy aims to expedite the operation while fostering a spirit of community engagement.
Environmental and Economic Implications
The discovery of the illegal sea fence has raised concerns about potential economic losses for local fishermen, estimated at Rp9 billion (nearly US$550 thousand) by the Indonesian Ombudsman. Officials from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries have pointed out the fence’s role in restricting public access to marine resources, potentially leading to environmental degradation and economic disparities within the community.
In a recent public discussion in Jakarta, ministry representatives highlighted the fence as a possible tool for monopolizing marine areas and exploiting resources for personal gain. The head of the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Office of Banten province, Eli Susiyanti, described the fence’s imposing size – standing at six meters tall and spanning 16 sub-districts – underscoring the magnitude of the issue at hand.
Overall, the Indonesian Navy’s proactive stance in removing the illegal sea fence signifies a crucial step towards safeguarding the interests of local fishermen and preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.
Random Humanizing Touch:
Imagine being a local fisherman in Tangerang, eagerly awaiting the day when you can freely navigate the waters once obstructed by the illegal sea fence. Your livelihood depends on access to these resources, and the collaborative efforts between the navy and your community offer a glimmer of hope for a brighter, more sustainable future. As the bamboo stalks are gradually uprooted, you feel a sense of pride in contributing to the restoration of your marine environment, knowing that your actions today will benefit generations to come.
