Jakarta (VNA) - The Jakarta authorities have allocated approximately 4.1 billion IDR (260,000 USD) for a weather modification programme aimed at mitigating flooding in the city.
Acting Governor of Jakarta Teguh Setyabudi stated that the budget will be allocated in three phases. The first phase, from December 7 to 9, will cost approximately 81,000 USD, while the second phase, from December 12 to 15, will require about 100,000 USD. Meanwhile, over 80,000 USD will be allocated for the third phase.
For the weather modification operation, aircraft will be used to spread special materials such as salt and lime (CaO) to reduce the formation of rain clouds in certain areas.
According to the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), storms in the Indian Ocean and the Asian monsoon will increase rainfall in the Java region, including Jakarta. Peak rainfall has been predicted on December 13-14, with some areas recording moderate-to high-intensity rain.
Tequh said Jakarta will collaborate with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency to determine the most critical period for weather modification operations. The city's administration will use the unexpected assistance fund to secure funding for implementing programmes in case of need, he added./.
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