Otorita Ibu Kota Nusantara (OIKN), the governing body overseeing the development of the Nusantara National Capital Region (IKN), is currently directing its efforts towards the meticulous refinement of plans for the establishment of a wildlife corridors along specific segments of the Pulau Balang Toll Road, namely segments 3B and 5A. This initiative serves as a dedicated endeavor to preserve and protect the diverse array of wild animals inhabiting the expansive IKN area.
The concept of a wildlife corridor entails the creation of a strategically positioned pathway characterized by lush vegetation, serving as a vital link between two or more habitats, conservation areas, or open spaces.
By facilitating the seamless movement and intermingling of individual wildlife members across various populations, such corridors contribute significantly to the sustainability and genetic diversity of the region’s precious wildlife.
Deputy for Environment and Natural Resources of OIKN, Myrna Asnawati Safitri, emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to formulating policies that prioritize the safeguarding of the IKN ‘s existing fauna.
In order to effectively preserve the region’s rich wildlife, Myrna stressed the importance of implementing comprehensive and meticulously designed wildlife corridors, tailored to align with the natural behavioral patterns and tendencies of the diverse species residing within the IKN ‘s ecological tapestry.
The collaborative efforts of OIKN, in conjunction with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, Ministry of Environment and Forestry, the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (BRIN), WWF, ADB, and the Forestry Agency of East Kalimantan Province, have culminated in the current stage of crafting wildlife corridors along the Pulau Balang Toll Road.
This particular project, situated in the southern region of the IKN , intersects four distinct wildlife corridors within the captivating Wain River area.
As this toll road progressively takes shape, it will serve as an essential conduit, seamlessly connecting the IKN , Balikpapan, and the bustling epicenter of industrial activity known as the Kariangau Industrial Center.
Through the meticulous integration of wildlife corridors into the infrastructure framework, the envisioned segments 3B and 5A of the toll road will provide a designated pathway specifically designed to accommodate the region’s diverse wildlife populations.
To ensure the smooth implementation of the IKN toll road project, it has been meticulously divided into three distinct segments, each entrusted to competent state-owned construction companies. Segment 3A, spanning a length of 13.4 kilometers, encompasses the stretch from Karangjoang to KKT Kariangau.
The subsequent segment, 3B, stretches across 7.32 kilometers, linking KKT Kariangau to Simpang Tempadung. Finally, segment 5A, extending 6.67 kilometers, connects Simpang Tempadung to the majestic Pulau Balang Bridge.
President Joko Widodo has expressed his firm assurance regarding the completion of the ambitious NCR toll road project, which is slated to culminate by the year’s end in 2024.
Jokowi, in his official statement, envisions this transformative infrastructure initiative as a means to drastically reduce travel time between Balikpapan and the IKN.
He anticipates that upon the project’s completion, commuters will be able to traverse the approximately 40-kilometer distance in a mere half-hour, offering enhanced connectivity and facilitating the seamless movement of people and goods across the region.
In light of the far-reaching ecological implications of the NCR toll road project, stringent measures have been put in place to ensure the seamless integration of the envisioned wildlife corridors within the overall infrastructure framework.
These measures guarantee the longevity, sustainability, and genetic diversity of the region’s cherished wildlife. As such, the authorities have issued clear directives, urging residents and commuters to exercise caution and adhere to prescribed guidelines, so as to minimize any potential disruption to the ecological balance of the IKN .
The forthcoming completion of the IKN toll road project, combined with the strategic implementation of wildlife corridors, underscores OIKN’s steadfast commitment to fostering an environment of harmony and coexistence between human development and the vibrant biodiversity of the IKN.
By forging a harmonious link between progress and environmental stewardship, the authorities aim to establish the IKN as a shining example of sustainable urban planning, wherein the preservation of wildlife and natural habitats remains at the forefront of the region’s collective consciousness.
