Indonesia’s largest city and capital Jakarta sinking faster than Venice — What’s causing it?

Jakarta, the largest city and capital of Indonesia, is sinking at an alarming speed, new reports warn. The city faces severe subsidence risks in coming decades. Scientists say parts of the capital may soon vanish. The crisis raises urgent concerns for millions living there.

Why Jakarta is Now Sinking So Rapidly?
Jakarta sinks between 1 and 15 cm yearly. Some neighbourhoods are sinking even faster according to surveys. Venice sinks nearly 0.08 inches each year instead. This difference shows Jakarta’s far more dramatic decline. Nearly 40% already lies below current sea level. Experts say the city may face danger by 2030. Many link the sinking to rapid human activities locally. Heavy groundwater extraction drains vital aquifers below ground.

The soil compacts when water reserves drop significantly. Soft delta land collapses under this continued pressure. Large buildings and roads weigh down unstable surfaces. Urban expansion spreads across fragile coastal plains quickly. Rising seas then combine with coastal subsidence problems. The dual effect magnifies flood threats across the city.

What This Means for Jakarta’s Future Survival?
Scientists warn that many districts may flood permanently. High tides may push seawater inland very easily. Heavy rains may turn homes into waterlogged sites. Infrastructure across the capital may suffer continual damage. Roads, houses and drainage may weaken under stress.