PORTALJABAR, DISTRICT. WEST BANDUNG - Acting Governor of West Java Bey Machmudin checked the condition of the Citarum River under the Babakan Sapaan bridge, Batujajar District, West Bandung Regency, which was filled with rubbish, Wednesday (12/6/2024).

Quick action was taken. The Citarum Harum Task Force, BBWS Sungai Citarum, and the community worked together to transport the rubbish that almost covered the surface of the water with the help of heavy equipment.

"We are moving quickly, coordinating together, because this is a common problem," said Bey Machmudin.

He said the waste dredging process is estimated to take 5 to 7 days considering the large pile of rubbish. To make dredging more optimal, his party will add heavy equipment.

"We will clean all this for five days to a week, because there is a lot of rubbish. Later there will be additional heavy equipment so that the dredging can be faster," he said.

Bey revealed that the cause of the accumulation of rubbish was due to the lack of discipline among residents in disposing of rubbish. Apart from that, there is also sediment in this area and the water level has dropped.

"The cause of rubbish piling up is due to falling water levels and the presence of sediment. There is also a lack of discipline among residents, so we remind you again not to throw rubbish carelessly, especially in rivers, and this is the consequence if you are not disciplined," explained Bey.

It is known that the waste was sent from Bandung City, Cimahi City and Bandung Regency. The trash has been piling up since Friday (7/6/2024).

Bey remains optimistic that the Citarum River water quality index will be at 60 in December 2025. The key is collaboration and discipline among residents in protecting the environment.

"The target remains and is optimistic that in December 2025 the water quality index will be 60. We are trying hard but it must be supported by the discipline of the residents," he said.