SOUTH TAPANULI — PT North Sumatra Hydro Energy (NSHE) held an information session regarding the initial reservoir filling (impounding) for the 510-megawatt Batangtoru Hydropower Plant (PLTA) project at the Sipirok District Office Hall, South Tapanuli Regency, on Thursday (June 18, 2026).
The event was attended by 98 participants, including representatives from local government, security forces, village administrations, community leaders, and residents living near the project area. The session was conducted as part of a community preparedness program leading up to the initial reservoir filling, which is scheduled for July 2026.
During the event, participants received explanations regarding the stages of the initial reservoir filling, the dam safety system, and the mitigation measures prepared for the impounding process.
Several agencies attended the event, including the South Tapanuli Regency Government, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), the Health Agency, the Transportation Agency, the Communication and Informatics Agency, the Environmental Agency, the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP), the Sipirok District Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimcam), village governments, and local residents.
PT NSHE Social Communication Manager Arie Dedy Puspita stated that the information session was part of the company’s effort to inform the public about the initial reservoir filling stages and dam safety aspects.
“We hope the community gains comprehensive information regarding the initial reservoir filling process, dam safety aspects, and the mitigation measures that have been prepared. Open communication is expected to support the smooth execution of the impounding process,” said Arie.
The event began with opening remarks from the Sipirok District Head, the Sipirok Military Rayon Commander (Danramil 03), Batangtoru Hydropower Plant management, and the South Tapanuli Regency Government, represented by the Head of the Health Agency.
In their presentation, management explained that the main dam structure and supporting facilities had been completed and had undergone a series of tests in accordance with technical standards. The initial reservoir filling is planned to take place in stages over a period of two weeks. According to the company, throughout the process, the flow rate of the Batangtoru River to downstream areas will be maintained in accordance with regulations, ensuring minimal disruption to communities along the river.
As part of efforts to enhance safety awareness, PT NSHE has also installed information boards and warning signs at five strategic locations upstream of the dam to provide details regarding the inundation area during the reservoir filling process.
The outreach activities included a dialogue session between the community and the company. Residents raised various questions and provided feedback covering topics such as the resolution of land acquisition, complaint mechanisms, employment opportunities for locals, and the implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.
PT NSHE stated that all feedback from the community would be documented and coordinated with local government authorities and relevant agencies in accordance with established procedures.
The company hopes the initial reservoir filling process will proceed according to plan, while prioritizing safety and maintaining coordination and communication with both the government and the community.