East Kalimantan DPRD Finalizes Mahakam River Ship Mooring Plan
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| DPRD Kaltim finalizes Mahakam River mooring regulations to prevent pontoon accidents, protect bridges, and boost regional revenue. |
Amid a rise in uncontrolled pontoon incidents, DPRD Kalimantan Timur is stepping up efforts to reorganize ship mooring points along the Mahakam River. The move is seen as crucial to improving navigation safety while protecting key regional infrastructure.
Chairman of the DPRD, Hasanuddin Mas'ud, stressed that the initiative goes beyond administrative measures—it is a strategic effort to safeguard state assets.
“This is a serious concern for all of us. Without proper regulation, drifting pontoons could collide with bridges. The impact would be severe for connectivity and the regional economy,” he said in Samarinda on Saturday.
Growing Risks to Critical Bridges
Hasanuddin highlighted recurring cases where pontoon mooring lines snap, posing a direct threat to major infrastructure such as Mahulu Bridge and Mahakam Bridge.
Both bridges play a vital role in supporting daily mobility and economic activity in East Kalimantan, making them highly sensitive to potential damage.
Strict Mooring Standards Proposed
To address the issue, DPRD is pushing for strict standardization of mooring locations, including:
Safe Positioning: Located outside main shipping lanes
Safe Distance: Away from bridges and narrow river bends
Technical Capacity: Adequate water depth to accommodate large vessels
These measures are expected to reduce accident risks and create a more orderly navigation system.
AIS and Inaportnet to Strengthen Monitoring
To eliminate monitoring gaps, DPRD is also promoting the use of Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology integrated with the Inaportnet system.
This setup enables real-time tracking of vessel movements through digital monitoring systems.
“In emergency situations, such as a snapped mooring line at night, AIS can provide early warnings so authorities can respond quickly before the vessel drifts further,” Hasanuddin explained.
Additionally, patrol vessels will be stationed at strategic points to conduct 24/7 surveillance along the river.
Boosting Regional Revenue Potential
Beyond safety improvements, the policy is also expected to unlock new revenue streams.
Currently, many mooring points operate without formal regulation. By legalizing and certifying these locations, they could contribute significantly to regional original revenue (PAD) and non-tax state revenue (PNBP).
“If these mooring points are properly regulated and certified, the revenue potential is substantial,” he added.
Collaboration with State and Regional Enterprises
A total of 33 mooring points are currently under review for structured management. The plan involves collaboration between state-owned enterprises (BUMN) and regionally owned enterprises (BUMD).
Areas such as Sungai Kunjang and Sungai Lais have emerged as initial options. However, discussions are still in early stages and will be further reviewed by DPRD commissions in coordination with relevant authorities.
FAQ
1. Why is mooring point regulation important?
To prevent drifting pontoons from causing accidents or damaging bridges and disrupting navigation.
2. What is AIS in maritime operations?
AIS is a digital vessel tracking system that monitors ship positions in real time.
3. What are the economic benefits of this policy?
It can increase regional revenue (PAD) and non-tax state income (PNBP).
4. How many mooring points are under review?
A total of 33 mooring points are currently being assessed.
5. Who will manage these mooring points?
They will likely be managed through collaboration between BUMN and BUMD entities.
