A total of 145 shade and ornamental tree seedlings have been planted along the banks of the Cengkareng Drain Canal on Kembangan Baru Street, West Jakarta. The initiative was carried out in Neighborhood Unit 03 of North Kembangan Urban Village as part of an environmental greening and area revitalization program. Local authorities also view the project as a preventive measure against the return of illegal street vendors to the site. The effort reflects the growing emphasis on combining urban beautification with public space management in Jakarta.
Head of North Kembangan Urban Village, Pepen, explained that the planting process involved 10 Public Infrastructure and Facilities Handling officers. He expressed hope that the newly planted vegetation would improve the visual appearance of the roadside area and create a greener, more comfortable environment for residents. The planted species include Hanjuang, Miana, Rohelia, and banana-related ornamental plants. According to local officials, the selection of plants was intended to provide both aesthetic value and environmental benefits to the surrounding area.
Before the greening initiative began, the local administration had previously dismantled 31 illegal street vendor stalls occupying the same location. Pepen stated that transforming the area into a landscaped space was necessary to prevent vendors from reoccupying the canal banks. The project demonstrates how urban landscaping is increasingly being used as a strategy for maintaining order in public areas. It also highlights the challenge faced by local governments in balancing economic activity with environmental management and public accessibility.
Kembangan District Head, Joko Suparno, added that the planted area stretches approximately 300 meters in length and one meter in width. He confirmed that the district administration has submitted a request to the West Jakarta Parks and Urban Forest Agency to further develop the area into a formal public park. The proposed park is expected to include additional functions tailored to the needs of nearby residents. Through this initiative, local authorities aim to transform previously neglected land into a more sustainable and community-oriented public space.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
