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EPOK: Hundreds of houses in Tugu subdistrict, Depok, have been inundated since Monday night, after the embankments of the Laya River collapsed due to strong currents from headwaters in Bogor.

While the floods, which topped 2 meters in some places, were receding on Tuesday, many residents were afraid to return home

“Bogor has declared a red alert for possible flooding due to the strong current. The current was so strong yesterday it overflowed the embankment,” Depok Deputy Mayor Idris Abdul Shomad said on Tuesday during a visit to inspect the situation at Tugu.

Idris said that the administration could only temporarily fortify the embankment, as it would take more time to ask for an additional budget of Rp 1 billion (US$104,000) to replace the structure.

“Flooding is unavoidable because the past administration allowed establishment of housing on low-lying land along the river. When there is flooing, then the houses will surely be inundated,” Idris said.

Depok Public Works Agency head Enco Kuryasa said that there were currently 33 flood-prone areas in 11 districts of Depok.

The agency has opened a hotline, 02171212161, for flood victims to request assistance from the municipality’s flood task force.

“We are ready to come to flooded areas as soon as we received a public report,” Enco said.

The Tugu flood victims said that they need clean water, canned food, clothes and mattresses.