ESDM Urges The Public To Secure Water Acquisition Reserves In The Land Of Shallow

Acting (Plt) Head of the Geological Agency Muhammad Wafid. (Photo: Maria Trisnawati/VOI)

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) appealed to the public to secure shallow groundwater aquifer reserves, especially for residents in urban areas with limited water infiltration through biopores.

"We urge the public to build reservoirs, infiltration wells, or biopores so that there is inflammation, so that the existing groundwater will be maintained in balance and can be used sustainably," said Acting Head of the Geological Agency Muhammad Wafid quoted on Tuesday, November 14.

Wafid said that reservoirs or infiltration wells are needed in urban areas where the land is covered with asphalt and concrete, so that the infiltration is limited.

In fact, when there is a flow of rain water, drainage will be caught and flow into the river, then to the estuary. So there is no water absorption in the ground.

"By making simple infiltration wells, reservoirs, or biopores, people can save rainwater to fill groundwater and reduce the potential for flooding in the rainy season," he added.

In addition to urging the construction of water infiltration wells, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has issued regulations regarding the approval of the use of groundwater.

The Decree of the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Number 291.K/GL.01/MEM.G/2023 concerning the Standard for Implementing the Approval of Groundwater Use is issued to prevent negative impacts of groundwater exploitation and ensure that every community gets groundwater needs in a sustainable manner.

The implementation of this (non-commercial) ground water permit is only applied to households that use groundwater more than 100 m3 per month per head of the family, people's agriculture outside the existing irrigation system, tourism or water sports activities that are managed for the public interest or not business activities, as well as the use of groundwater for research, development, education and health needs belonging to the Government.