Clogged Drains, Heavy Rain Leaves Kutabumi Flooded

Kutabumi, Tangerang Regency — January 2, 2026. Heavy rain poured over the Kutabumi commercial area on Monday night, causing water to accumulate in several spots. The usually lively district turned quiet as rainwater reached parking lots and shop terraces. The vibrant night atmosphere was replaced by the sound of rain hitting rooftops and splashing across the flooded street.

Picture : Water pooled in front of the gym store.

The downpour began around 22:00 p.m. and lasted for quite some time. Within minutes, water flowed heavily along the street and formed puddles in low-lying areas. Several motorcycles were partially submerged, and visitors took shelter under shop canopies or inside food stalls. Normally crowded with customers, most stalls appeared empty, with only a few staying to wait out the rain while sipping warm drinks.

Street vendors and shoppers were among those most affected. A food seller said that waterlogging like this happens almost every time it rains heavily. “When it rains this hard, the water rises quickly because the drains are narrow and clogged with trash. It usually goes down an hour after the rain stops,” he explained while serving customers. Despite the conditions, most vendors chose to remain open to avoid losing income.

Business owners in the area also experienced disruptions. Dandi, the owner of Joyo Gym, reported that training sessions at his fitness center were disturbed as water reached the front of the building. “Usually, many members come at night, but tonight several canceled because the entrance was flooded. The water reached the front door, so people were hesitant to come in,” Dandi said when interviewed. He expressed hope that local authorities would soon fix the drainage system to prevent future disruptions to his business and ensure customer safety.

According to residents, the main cause of the flooding is poor drainage performance. Many drainage channels are blocked by garbage and sediment, preventing rainwater from flowing properly. The slightly lower elevation in front of the shop rows worsens the pooling effect. Locals hope that the municipal government will clean and repair the drains soon to prevent similar problems during future rainy seasons.

Rainwater cascading from rooftops added to the puddles along sidewalks and parking areas. Motorists were forced to slow down due to slippery roads and limited visibility. Meanwhile, some residents who were already in the area decided to wait under canopies, watching the rain pour down relentlessly.

By 11:00 p.m., the rain began to subside, though puddles remained in several areas. There were no reports of damage, but local activity was temporarily halted due to the weather. Residents were advised to remain cautious when passing through the flooded commercial area as the roads remained slippery and wet.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of effective drainage systems in busy urban zones. Even minor flooding can disrupt comfort, safety, and local business activity. With improved infrastructure and public awareness about keeping drains clean, residents hope to prevent similar incidents in the future.