A 19-Ton Trash Pile Plagues Sungai Citarum River, Cleanup Underway
In a disturbing environmental crisis, a 19-ton trash pile has accumulated along an 800-meter stretch of the Sungai Citarum Lama in Cicukang, Margaasih, Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat. The debris, measuring 12 meters wide and two meters high, has plagued the river since early January 2025. On Monday, January 27, 2025, a team of sanitation workers from the Balai Besar Wilayah Sungai (BBWS) Citarum embarked on a daunting cleanup effort to tackle this pressing issue.
Witnesses described the scene as overwhelming, with the sheer magnitude of waste posing a significant challenge to the cleanup crew. The trash, a jumbled mess of plastic, organic matter, and other discarded items, paints a bleak picture of the environmental degradation in the area. Residents and environmentalists alike have expressed grave concerns about the long-term impact of such pollution on the delicate ecosystem of the Sungai Citarum River.
Expert commentary on the situation highlights the urgent need for more robust waste management strategies and public awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents in the future. Dr. Anisa, an environmental scientist, emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining the cleanliness of water bodies like the Sungai Citarum River. She underscored the role of education in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among citizens.
As the cleanup operation continues, local authorities have urged residents to be mindful of their waste disposal practices and to participate in community cleanup initiatives. The gravity of the situation serves as a stark reminder of the collective responsibility we all share in preserving our natural resources for future generations. Despite the challenges ahead, the concerted efforts of sanitation workers and concerned citizens offer a glimmer of hope in restoring the beauty of the Sungai Citarum River.
