Indragiri Hilir plans mangrove rehabilitation to combat coastal abrasion

The Indonesian government and Riau Regional Police have launched a large-scale mangrove rehabilitation project to combat severe coastal abrasion in Kuala Selat, Kateman District, Indragiri Hilir. Since 2021, abrasion in the area has impacted approximately 1,700 hectares of community plantations.

Minister of Environment Jumhur Hidayat announced a commitment to plant mangroves across an initial 500 hectares, with the goal of expanding the restoration area to 1,000 hectares. The initiative aims to achieve both environmental recovery and socio-economic stabilization for local residents.

Riau Regional Police Chief Irjen Herry Heryawan emphasized that the erosion threatens not only the land but also the livelihoods and future of the coastal communities. The commitment was formalized during the Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi Polda Riau, which included the distribution of aid and matching grants to local community groups.