Widespread blackout hits Batam, disrupts public services
PLN has faced public scrutiny this year over a series of major power outages across the country.
On Monday, a significant power outage hit parts of the Riau Islands, including the provinces of Batam, Tanjungpinang city, and Bintan, according to PLN, the state-owned electricity company. The blackout commenced around 6:30 a.m., affecting the provincial capital Batam along with surrounding areas.
In Batam, the outage had severe repercussions, including the malfunctioning of traffic lights at major intersections, leading to significant traffic congestion during the morning rush hour. The blackout also disrupted services at Hang Nadim International Airport, temporarily affecting various airport facilities. These included air conditioning, baggage conveyors, internet connectivity, parking services, lighting at some retail outlets, and passenger boarding gates.
However, critical aviation safety and security systems, such as runway lights and X-ray screening equipment, remained fully operational.
The power disruption also impacted municipal government applications in Batam, causing temporary inaccessibility. Additionally, the blackout compromised clean water supplies in several parts of Batam. Despite water treatment plants utilizing backup generators, they were only able to maintain 30 percent of their normal production capacity, as reported by authorities.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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