Indonesia Deploys Pumps, Tanks to Combat West Kalimantan Drought and Fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works is rapidly deploying water pumps and tanks to address the impacts of drought and forest fires in West Kalimantan. This action follows the Kubu Raya Regency's declaration of a disaster emergency status for forest and land fires.

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo stressed the ministry's commitment to preparedness during the dry season, particularly in West Kalimantan. Cross-sector coordination and the provision of supporting infrastructure are key priorities. "The Ministry of Public Works not only focuses on infrastructure development but also ensures that this infrastructure can be optimally utilized to support disaster response, maintain water availability, protect the environment, and guarantee public safety," Dody stated.

The ministry, through the West Kalimantan I River Basin Center (BWS) and the West Kalimantan Center for Building, Infrastructure, and Area Arrangement (BPBPK), is deploying various resources. These efforts aim to ensure the public's water needs are met and to support fire prevention. Aid has been distributed to areas affected by water shortages, including Pontianak City, Kubu Raya Regency, and Sanggau Regency. Personnel have also been sent to Ketapang and Kubu Raya to assess water resource and infrastructure needs.

M. Tahid, head of BWS Kalimantan I, confirmed coordination with local disaster management and regional governments. "Our efforts in the field include assisting with pumps, fuel, and deploying teams to Ketapang and Kubu Raya to identify what we can help with from water resources and public works," he said. Tahid noted that the long dry season, intensified by El Nino, increases fire risks, especially in West Kalimantan's peatland areas, which are difficult to manage when fires occur.

Mohd. Yoza Habibie, head of BPBPK West Kalimantan, reported that clean water aid has been distributed to drought-stricken areas including Kubu Raya, Kayong Utara, Pontianak, Singkawang, and Sanggau.