01 · The problem
What is happening
Jakarta sits on a low-lying alluvial delta crossed by many rivers. Extensive extraction of groundwater for domestic and commercial supply compacts underlying sediments, causing the land surface to sink. Subsidence has been measured in northern Jakarta by geodetic surveys and satellite radar. As the ground drops relative to the sea, tidal flooding, river flooding and drainage failure all become harder to manage. Indonesia's response includes coastal defences, piped water expansion to reduce groundwater use, and the relocation of the national capital.
Critical severity. Severe, persistent harm to health, ecosystems or livelihoods. Severity is descriptive editorial metadata summarising documented effects. It is not a measured index or a score.
02 · Causes
Why it is happening
- 01
Groundwater extraction
Pumping from shallow and deep aquifers compacts sediments and lowers the land surface.
- 02
Incomplete piped water coverage
Where piped supply is unavailable or unreliable, households and businesses drill their own wells.
- 03
Delta geology and building loads
Soft young alluvial sediments compact naturally and further under the weight of dense construction.
- 04
Upstream land use and river sedimentation
Changes in the catchment increase runoff and sediment, reducing channel capacity downstream.
03 · Impacts
Who and what it affects
- 01
Increased flood frequency and depth
As the land sinks relative to the sea, the same rainfall or tide produces deeper, longer-lasting flooding.
- 02
Damage to buildings and infrastructure
Differential settlement cracks structures, breaks pipes and damages roads and drainage.
- 03
Saltwater intrusion
Lower land and depleted aquifers allow seawater to move into groundwater used for supply.
- 04
Displacement and economic loss
Repeated flooding in northern districts disrupts livelihoods and can force relocation.
04 · Solutions
Documented approaches
Piped water expansion
Extending reliable piped supply so users no longer need private wells.
Expected effectDirectly addresses the main driver of subsidence, though the land does not rebound.
Groundwater extraction control
Licensing, metering and restriction of extraction, particularly for large commercial users.
Expected effectSlows the rate of further sinking where enforced.
Coastal and river defences
Sea walls, pumping stations and river normalisation to manage water levels.
Expected effectBuys time and reduces flood frequency, but requires continuous investment.
Relocation of capital functions
Moving national government functions to Nusantara reduces future growth pressure on Jakarta.
Expected effectReduces long-term demand growth; Jakarta remains the country's largest urban economy.
05 · Key indicators
What can be measured
- Documented subsidence
- Measured in North Jakarta
Geodetic and satellite studies document substantial subsidence in northern Jakarta, with rates varying strongly by district. Refer to the cited studies for site-specific rates.
- Primary driver
- Groundwater extraction
Research consistently identifies groundwater extraction as the dominant cause, with sediment compaction and building loads as contributors.
06 · Sources
Where this comes from
- [1]Land subsidence in coastal city of Semarang and Jakarta (research overview)Institut Teknologi Bandung geodesy research groupitb.ac.id(opens in a new tab)
- [2]Indonesia: National Capital Integrated Coastal DevelopmentWorld Bankworldbank.org(opens in a new tab)
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