Jakarta: A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has warned that pollution in the Cisadane River following a chemical spill could pose long-term health risks due to the potential bioaccumulation of hazardous substances.
Ignasius Sutapa of BRIN’s Limnology and Water Resources Research Center said the incident could trigger bioaccumulation and biomagnification processes in the aquatic ecosystem.
Pesticide residues or their metabolites may accumulate in aquatic organisms and move up the food chain to higher-level predators, including humans who consume contaminated fish.
“This risk indicates that the pollution may not only have short-term impacts but also the potential to cause chronic health effects,” he said in a statement on Sunday, as quoted by Antara on February 15, 2026.
He explained that contaminants can settle in riverbed sediments and become a source of secondary toxic release over time.
Even if surface water appears clear, hazardous compounds may persist in sediment deposits and be remobilized into the water column under certain environmental conditions, he added.
From a public health perspective, pesticide exposure can occur through direct contact, such as bathing and washing, or indirectly through the consumption of contaminated raw water or fish.
Sutapa noted that certain pesticides, particularly neurotoxic types, may cause acute symptoms including nausea, dizziness, nervous system disorders, and even death, depending on the level of exposure.
“In the long term, chronic exposure may lead to endocrine disruption, organ damage, and potential carcinogenic effects,” he said.
As short-term mitigation measures, he recommended temporarily closing raw water intake facilities operated by regional water utilities in affected areas.
He also called for intensified real-time water quality monitoring and urged the public not to use river water until it is officially declared safe. Remediation efforts will be necessary if the pollution source is confirmed, he added.
Sutapa stressed the importance of long-term strategies, including stronger supervision and law enforcement against polluters of hazardous and toxic waste.
He also highlighted the need to develop early warning systems based on online water quality sensors and to diversify raw water sources to enhance water security during crises.
In addition, restoration of the river ecosystem through riparian zone rehabilitation is necessary to strengthen the river’s natural capacity to filter pollutants.
“The public should remain vigilant and follow official guidance. Do not use river water for cooking, drinking, washing, or bathing until it is declared safe. Avoid consuming fish from affected areas during this period,” he said.
BRIN Warns of Health Risks from Chemical Spill in Cisadane River
