West Java prepares for waste crisis and severe drought in 2026

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has initiated preparations to address two critical challenges facing the province: a looming waste crisis and the potential impacts of a prolonged drought. A coordination meeting, held at the Army Headquarters on Thursday, brought together key officials, including the Army Chief of Staff and the head of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

The province's primary waste disposal site, the Sarimukti landfill, is nearing capacity and is expected to be full within six months. This situation threatens waste management for several major areas, including Bandung city and regency, Cimahi city, and West Bandung regency. Governor Mulyadi emphasized the need for immediate mitigation strategies, including waste reduction efforts and exploring technological solutions like waste-to-fuel conversion, supported by the military.

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We must anticipate the impact of this long drought, including drought and even fires. Information from BMKG, the peak of the dry season in West Java will occur in August and September. I ask for input and information from the mayors and regents to map out problem handling.

Compounding the waste issue is the anticipated arrival of an extreme El Nino event, projected to cause a long and severe drought in West Java. BMKG forecasts indicate the peak of the dry season will occur in August and September. The governor urged regional leaders to map out potential drought-affected areas and prepare for water shortages, potential fires, and the mobilization of water resources. He called for swift action to ensure adequate water supply for daily needs and agriculture, advocating for the construction of clean water networks and water storage tanks in vulnerable villages.

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Preparations must be made as soon as possible without waiting for a disaster to occur first. Therefore, I invite the TNI and other concerned communities to jointly anticipate the long drought and waste problems.