Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The Indonesian Ombudsman has revealed that a mysterious 30 kilometer sea fence in Tangerang Regency, Banten, has caused significant economic losses for local fishermen, estimated at approximately Rp9 billion ($584,000).
Ombudsman Chair Mokhammad Najih stated during a press conference in Jakarta on Thursday states that the figure is not a detailed assessment but provides an initial gauge of the impact. “This is still a rough valuation, based on grievances expressed by the fishermen,” Najih explained, as reported by Antara.
The preliminary figure, calculated based on the decline of affected fishermen income and the estimated losses incurred due to the increased distance to reach fishing areas. “With the sea fence in place, fishermen must travel an additional 30 kilometers, increasing fuel consumption from one liter to three liters per trip,” Najih noted.
Investigative Findings
The estimation was revealed by the Ombudsman’s investigative team, led by member Yeka Hendra Fatika. Speaking in Serang, Banten, on January 15, Yeka estimated that losses over the past three months had reached Rp9 billion. He attributed the decline in income to restricted access for thousands of local fishermen attempting to earn their livelihood at sea.
According to Banten Ombudsman Representative Fadli Afriadi, the losses were calculated by analyzing the average income reduction experienced by fishermen. Data from the Ombudsman shows that around 3,888 fishermen have been affected due to limited access to fishing areas caused by the sea fence.
The obstruction has reportedly reduced fishermen’s daily earnings by an average of Rp100,000 ($6.50). With fishermen working an average of 20 days per month, the cumulative losses have surged. The extended routes required to bypass the barrier have also escalated fuel consumption, further straining the fishermen’s financial situation.
“The assumption is that 1,500 fishermen go out to sea for 20 days per month. Over three months, the losses have already reached Rp9 billion ($584,000). This is the lowest economic estimate, especially considering there are currently 3,888 fishermen affected,” he said.
Experts Calculations
Public policy expert Achmad Nur Hidayat from UPN Veteran Jakarta provided a broader assessment, estimating that the illegal sea fence found in Tangerang and Bekasi could inflict annual economic damages of Rp116.91 billion ($7.6 million).
“This figure includes a decrease in fishermen’s income of Rp93.31 billion, increased operational costs of Rp18.60 billion, and marine ecosystem damage worth Rp5 billion annually,” Achmad explained as reported by Antara.
He described the sea fence as a source of significant economic, social, and ecological harm. “The sea fence along the coasts of Tangerang and Bekasi has caused more harm than good. The project has failed to deliver promised benefits and has instead led to widespread losses.”
Call for Resolution
Fishermen and experts alike are calling on authorities to investigate the legality and purpose of the sea fence. Many are urging immediate action to dismantle the structure to prevent further economic and environmental repercussions.
Read also : Unveiling the Mysterious Sea Fence Bekasi, A West Java Government Project!
As the issue continues to develop, questions linger over the motivations behind the fence’s construction and its broader impact on the livelihoods and ecosystems it has disrupted.
(Raidi/Agung)
