Construction of Indonesia's vast new capital city on the east coast of Borneo has brought significant changes to Balikpapan Bay. This once bustling fishing area now faces numerous challenges due to the surge in port traffic and the development of various industrial projects.

The Construction Conundrum - How Indonesia's New Capital Affects Balikpapan Bay

Port Traffic and Its Impact

The construction of the new capital has led to a remarkable increase in port traffic in Balikpapan Bay. As ships pass through the bay more frequently, it has put existing pressures on the mangrove forests lining the inlet. Local villages that depend on near-shore fisheries are struggling to endure these changes. District-level officials acknowledge the diverse challenges faced by fishers but are committed to seeking redress for the destruction of the 16,000 hectares of mangroves. Abdul Kadir, a fisherman, often looks out to sea as storm clouds gather, knowing that the fishing conditions have changed. In the past, a fishing boat from Jenebora village could haul up to 40 kilograms of fish and shrimp in a day. However, now there has been a decline in catches and prices. The arrival of commercial ships anchoring in fishing grounds has squeezed local catches, and some prime fishing areas have been off-limits due to the capital development and industrial estate.

Marine Ecosystem Disruption

The clearing of mangrove forests by developers in Balikpapan Bay has had a profound impact on the marine ecosystem. These forests provide crucial feeding and spawning grounds for marine life. As the mangroves are cleared, the marine ecosystem is disrupted, and the surrounding environment suffers. The Kariangau Industrial Estate, a prominent industrial and logistics hub, has contributed to increased sedimentation in the water, blocking sunlight and preventing seagrasses from photosynthesizing. This, in turn, affects the dugongs that call these waters home. The lack of major river mouths in the bay limits the movement of water, trapping sediment and waste. If left unchecked, this could lead to an ecological disaster in the future.

Fishermen's Struggles and Hopes

Fishers in Balikpapan Bay are facing a difficult time. Muhammad Abduh, the chair of a local fisher association, says that fish and shrimp catches have decreased year on year, prompting many to leave the village in search of a new livelihood. Despite efforts to improve communication with contractors and commercial operators, the companies seem to be indifferent to the welfare of local fishers. Abdul Kadir, who has been fishing since elementary school, now struggles to make a living with only 1 or 2 kilos of fish. However, he remains hopeful that something can be done to restore the fishing economy. The national capital authority has promised to zone the existing mangroves in the bay as a protected area, and efforts are being made to limit deforestation. But the road to recovery is long and challenging.