Indonesia River Dries Up
A prolonged dry season in Indonesia’s Kalimantan has caused the Barito River to shrink dramatically, exposing large sections of the riverbed beneath Kalahien Bridge.
Footage shows people walking across the dried-out riverbed, as falling water levels disrupt fishing and make it harder for communities to reach villages that depend on the river for transport.
“During the dry season, fishing activities are quite disrupted. This drought directly impacts our catch, drastically reducing the amount of fish we get. Access to the villages is also hindered because the river has dried up,” said local fisherman, Five Hartadi.
“It has become difficult for us to reach villages that are only accessible by boat due to the receding water levels caused by this dry season,” Hartadi said.
Communities Face Challenges
The prolonged drought has also caused severe silting and the formation of a sandy plain beneath Kalahien Bridge.
The Barito is one of Indonesia’s major waterways and a vital transport route for communities in Kalimantan, particularly those in remote areas where roads are limited or unavailable.
River Transport Disrupted
Falling river levels during the dry season can leave boats unable to navigate parts of the waterway, affecting access to food, markets and essential services.
Article by Viory
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