South Tapanuli: Ahead of the initial filling (impounding) of the 510-megawatt (MW) Batangtoru Hydropower Plant (PLTA) dam, PT North Sumatra Hydro Energy (PT NSHE) is strengthening community preparedness through outreach regarding dam safety and the initial reservoir filling process.
This initiative aims to ensure the community understands every stage of the process while enhancing coordination with various stakeholders.
The event, held at the Sipirok District Office Hall in South Tapanuli Regency, was attended by 98 participants, including local government officials, security personnel, village authorities, community leaders, and residents living near the project area.
Arie Dedy Puspita, Social Communication Manager at PT North Sumatra Hydro Energy (PT NSHE), stated that this outreach activity is not merely a fulfillment of regulatory obligations but also a demonstration of the company’s commitment to building trust through open communication with the community.
“This outreach is part of PT NSHE’s commitment to ensuring the community receives comprehensive information regarding the initial reservoir filling process, dam safety aspects, and the mitigation measures that have been prepared,” said Arie, as quoted in a written statement on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
“We hope that open communication and collaboration with all stakeholders will support a smooth impounding process while enhancing the preparedness of the community surrounding the project area,” Arie added.
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). Subsequently, participants received explanations regarding the dam’s technical readiness, the initial filling plan, and dam safety mechanisms; they also viewed a profile video of the Batangtoru Hydropower Plant and an Emergency Action Plan (RTD) simulation.
Reservoir filling to be conducted in stages
In its presentation, the management of the Batangtoru Hydropower Plant (PLTA) explained that all major dam structures, hydromechanical systems, and supporting facilities have been completed and have undergone a series of tests in accordance with applicable technical standards.
The initial filling of the reservoir is planned to take place in stages over a period of approximately two weeks. Throughout this process, the river flow rate to downstream areas will be maintained in accordance with regulations to ensure there are no adverse impacts on communities living along the Batangtoru River.
As part of efforts to raise public awareness and safety, PT NSHE has installed information boards and warning signs at five strategic locations upstream of the dam. This measure aims to ensure the public better understands the inundation area and can carry out their activities safely while the reservoir filling process is underway.
PT NSHE believes that the success of the impounding process depends not only on the technical readiness of the dam but also on the preparedness of all parties involved.
Therefore, the company remains committed to the principles of transparency, safety, and collaboration with the government and the community. This ensures that every stage leading up to the operation of the Batangtoru Hydropower Plant proceeds safely and smoothly, ultimately contributing to the provision of sustainable clean energy for Indonesia. (*)
Source: Medcom.id