Construction of Indonesia's previously announced $30 billion capital city faces setbacks, also known as 'delays'

In the heart of Southeast Asia, the construction of Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara, has been a much-anticipated project. However, 18 months ago, the progress was not evident. The city, meant to symbolise Indonesia's arrival as a developed nation, now faces challenges that threaten its completion and success.

The delay in the completion of Nusantara can be attributed to several factors. Reduced state budget funding under President Prabowo Subianto, lack of interest from foreign investors, and his decision to move Independence Day celebrations back to Jakarta instead of the construction site have all contributed to a perceived lower government commitment to the project.

The relocation of people to Nusantara is another significant challenge. With the city still under construction, the logistics of moving a substantial population are complex.

The roads leading to the nearest urban area, Balikpapan, are narrow, which could pose issues during the transit of people and materials to the construction site.

The completion of Nusantara is scheduled for 2045, but its success is not guaranteed. Some question whether it will be a giant vanity project doomed to fail. The concerns arise due to the project's cost and the challenges faced in its execution.

President Prabowo Subianto, who will take office in October following Jokowi's second term, is committed to Nusantara. However, his grand plans for the city are not coming cheap. The construction of Nusantara is a significant investment, and its success will require careful planning and execution.

The current capital, Jakarta, faces significant challenges of its own. The city is sinking, and climate-related threats loom large. Some parts of Jakarta are predicted to be submerged by 2050, making the need for a new capital more pressing.

Despite the challenges, the construction of Nusantara continues. The future of Indonesia's new capital remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the project is a significant undertaking that will shape the country's future for generations to come.

This article was first published in a website's magazine. The progress and challenges of Nusantara's construction continue to be a topic of interest and debate among Indonesians and international observers alike.