Jakarta Gone Soon: Why is Indonesia Changing Capital Cities?

Indonesia, a nation of diverse islands, is embarking on a monumental shift: moving its capital city from Jakarta to the island of Borneo. This decision comes as Jakarta grapples with severe challenges, including congestion, pollution, and the alarming rate at which it is sinking. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this historic change.

The Sinking City

Jakarta, home to over 10 million people, faces a dire fate. It has earned the dubious distinction of being the world’s most rapidly sinking city. At the current rate, approximately one-third of Jakarta could be submerged by 2050. 

The primary culprits are uncontrolled groundwater extraction and rising sea levels due to climate change. The city’s air and groundwater are heavily polluted, and its streets are perpetually clogged, costing the economy a staggering $4.5 billion annually in congestion-related losses.

President Joko Widodo’s Vision

President Joko Widodo envisions a fresh start for Indonesia. His plan involves constructing a new capital city, named Nusantara (meaning “archipelago” in Javanese), on the island of Borneo. Here’s what we know about this ambitious project:

1. Relocating Civil Servants: Over 1.5 million civil servants are expected to move to the new capital, situated some 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) northeast of Jakarta. This relocation aims to ease the burden on Jakarta while kickstarting a sustainable city.
2. A Sustainable Forest City: The new capital will embrace the “forest city” concept, with 65% of its area dedicated to reforestation. The goal? To be carbon-neutral by 2045, aligning with Indonesia’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
3. Inauguration and Completion: The city is set to be inaugurated on August 17, coinciding with Indonesia’s Independence Day. However, the final stages won’t be completed until 2045, marking the nation’s centenary.

Environmental Concerns

While the move promises a fresh beginning, environmentalists raise valid concerns:

• Deforestation: The new capital’s construction may lead to massive deforestation, endangering lush rainforests and the habitat of species like orangutans.
• Indigenous Communities: Indigenous communities near the project site fear displacement and cultural erosion.

As Indonesia embarks on this historic transition, it must balance progress with environmental responsibility. The fate of Jakarta hangs in the balance, and the success of Nusantara will shape Indonesia’s future for generations to come.