The Musi River which divides Palembang City, province of South Sumatra, Indonesia has an important role as a means of transportation and a source of clean water for its citizens. The longest river on the island of Sumatra is also promoted as a tourist attraction. But ironically, the problem of garbage can still be easily found in this region. For example in the village of 10 Ulu, garbage floats along the riverbank not far from the residential area.
Various types of garbage in the river create a sad view. Most are made of plastic and styrofoam waste which is very difficult to decompose. This waste, aside from originating from other places in the upstream area, was also disposed of by residents living in the tributaries. The presence of garbage has polluted the river, which can endanger the lives of fish and the environment around it.
Even though garbage accumulates, residents continue to do activities on the river as usual, using river water to wash food ingredients and swim.
This condition is not only due to a lack of awareness of citizens but also due to the unavailability of temporary landfills in this area. In addition to making the river look slum, the presence of garbage also causes unpleasant odors. Residents also complained about the number of mosquitoes caused by rubbish piles.
This garbage phenomenon is quite ironic. Because the Palembang city government has just received the Adipura award (an environmental award for a city) for the 12th time and routinely holds joint cleanup activities every week. Residents hope that the activities can also take place in their surroundings. The government is also expected to provide temporary bins to make it easier for residents to dispose of trash.