Manggar Dam Water Levels Shrink, Threatening Balikpapan's Clean Water Supply

Water levels at the Manggar Dam in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, are critically low, raising concerns about the city's clean water supply. Officials are monitoring the situation closely as the reservoir experiences a significant reduction in its water debit.

Perumda Tirta Manuntung Balikpapan (PTMB), the local water utility, reported that over the past month, the dam's water volume has shrunk from approximately 16,000 cubic meters to 12,000 cubic meters. This decline translates to a daily surface water recession of about three centimeters. The primary cause is the prolonged absence of rainfall in the Balikpapan region.

The diminishing water levels at Waduk Manggar are particularly concerning because it serves as a crucial source of potable water for the city's inhabitants. PTMB estimates that if the dry spell continues and no substantial rainfall occurs in the coming months, the reduced water availability could significantly impact the clean water supply for Balikpapan residents within the next three months.

Authorities are urging residents to be mindful of water usage as the situation develops. The dam's capacity to provide a consistent supply is directly linked to precipitation, and the current lack of rain presents a tangible threat to daily water needs. The hope is for the return of seasonal rains to replenish the reservoir and avert a potential water shortage crisis.