AHY: Clean Water and Irrigation are Priorities to Face El Nino

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY). (Teddy VOI)

JAKARTA - The government prioritizes securing clean water supplies and irrigation networks as a step to face the threat of El Nino which has the potential to trigger a longer drought.

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) said that water resources management is the main focus of the government so that the impact of the dry season does not interfere with community needs and food production.

"When El Nino occurs, especially with a strong status, we must ensure that our water is sufficient," said AHY at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Tuesday, July 28.

According to AHY, the government must manage water resources efficiently to ensure the availability of clean water for households while maintaining the supply of irrigation for agricultural land.

This step is considered important so that agricultural productivity remains maintained in the midst of the drought threat.

In addition to water issues, the government is also preparing mitigation steps against forest and land fires that have the potential to increase during the dry season.

AHY emphasized that fire control must be the concern of all related agencies. Peat areas must also be maintained in a wet condition to reduce the risk of fire.

When asked about the areas that are expected to experience drought, AHY said the government already had data. However, the details of the area will be conveyed in an official presentation.

He also ensured that the construction of houses in Aceh and its surroundings continued. According to AHY, the progress of construction continues to be monitored, although he has not brought the latest data when giving information to reporters.