Swasembada Air, Facing the Threat of El Nino and Extreme Weather

Jakarta - Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development (Menko Infra) Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) explained that currently the government is drafting a water self-sufficiency strategy as a long-term step to face the threat of El Nino and extreme weather that is expected to occur more frequently.

This was conveyed by AHY at the Presidential Palace Complex, Jakarta, Tuesday, July 28. According to AHY, Indonesia's main challenge is not merely the amount of water available, but its uneven distribution. Some areas have abundant water reserves, while other areas routinely face drought.

Therefore, according to AHY, the government continues to search for new water sources to strengthen national water resilience. One of the options discussed was the use of seawater through desalination and brackish water treatment in areas with limited water sources.

AHY said the step was prepared so that the supply of clean water, household needs, and agricultural irrigation would be maintained when El Nino lasted longer.