BLITAR – Authorities in Blitar have issued safety warnings to river crossing operators ahead of scheduled flushing operations at Wlingi and Lodoyo dams, which are expected to increase water flow along the Brantas River.
The flushing process will run from May 18 to May 23. Officials fear stronger currents and fluctuating water levels could endanger ferry services and small river transport activities during the operation period.
The Blitar Transportation Agency urged all boat and ferry operators to remain alert while operating on the Brantas River. The warning aims to reduce the risk of river transportation accidents during the dam maintenance activity.
Puguh Imam Susanto, head of the Blitar Transportation Agency, delivered the warning through transportation division head Anik Yuanawati. She said river conditions could change suddenly during the flushing process.
“Boat and ferry operators must closely monitor the Brantas River currents during flushing activities to ensure passenger safety,” Anik said.
In an official notice sent to the Brantas Makmur Sentosa Cooperative, the agency instructed operators to temporarily stop crossing services if river currents become dangerous.
Authorities also ordered operators to provide proper safety equipment during operations. Passengers and crew members must use life jackets and ring buoys while traveling across the river.
The Transportation Agency further warned residents not to use ferry boats for fishing activities during the flushing period. Officials said such actions could disrupt transportation safety and create additional risks for passengers and operators.
“Those activities may interfere with passenger safety and ferry operations,” Anik added.
Besides safety equipment, operators must ensure passenger loads, vehicles, and transported goods stay within approved capacity limits. Authorities believe overloaded boats could lose balance more easily under strong river currents.
The agency also instructed operators to inspect slings and securing ropes before each trip. Routine inspections aim to prevent technical failures while boats operate in faster-moving water.
Officials additionally requested checks on side barriers and the physical condition of ferry boats. Operators must ensure wooden structures remain strong and free from decay.
Authorities also emphasized the importance of checking for leaks on boat hulls before operations begin. Even small leaks could become dangerous when water currents intensify during flushing activities.
Anik said the Transportation Agency continues coordinating with related institutions throughout the flushing operation. Officials also called on local communities to follow safety instructions near the Brantas River.
According to the agency, public awareness and operator discipline remain essential for preventing accidents during the dam flushing period.
“We hope all crossing operators and residents follow these safety recommendations so activities during the flushing process remain safe and controlled,” Anik said.
The Brantas River serves as an important transportation route for several communities in the area. Because of that, authorities plan to continue monitoring river conditions closely until the flushing operation ends later this month.