Budget Cuts Hit Nganjuk’s Public Parks: Environment Agency Bears the Burden

By Nyoto | Edited by Kenzo – AswinNews.com
Tajam, Akurat, Terpercaya, Berimbang, dan Ter-Update

Nganjuk – AswinNews.com
In an effort to reduce its electricity expenditure in early 2025, the Nganjuk Regency Government—through the Department of Transportation (Dishub)—has implemented a strict efficiency policy. As a result, the Environmental Agency (DLH) is now burdened with the cost of powering public parks, a responsibility previously held by Dishub.

Data shows that in 2024, Nganjuk’s Department of Transportation spent approximately Rp 14.5 billion annually on electricity bills to the state electricity company, PLN. By mid-2025, the average monthly payment reached Rp 1.2 billion, prompting Dishub to rethink its budget strategy.

To address the soaring costs, Dishub decided to reallocate the financial responsibility for electricity used in city parks—including Nyawiji Park, Pandan Wilis Park, and the Smart Park (Taman Pintar)—to the DLH, citing jurisdictional authority as the basis for the move.

“Yes, we’re enforcing energy efficiency across public lighting, including converting mercury lamps to LEDs. We’re also returning village-level streetlights to the authority of their respective local governments,” said Tri Hatmanto, Head of Infrastructure and Facilities at the Nganjuk Transportation Department, during an interview on Wednesday (May 28, 2025).

Tri confirmed that the electricity costs for urban green spaces (Ruang Terbuka Hijau or RTH) were officially transferred to DLH as of March or April 2025.

“Previously, Dishub handled electricity payments for parks like Nyawiji and other RTH areas. But now, everything has been handed over to DLH,” he added.

This administrative shift, while justified by jurisdictional realignment, raises questions about inter-agency coordination and the broader impact on DLH’s operational budget—especially amid rising energy costs.

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