Bandung City Government Ensures Clean Water Supply During Dry Season

The Bandung City Government has assured that the community’s clean water needs will be met despite reduced water availability in several areas due to the dry season. Mayor Muhammad Farhan stated that as of the end of July 2026, no drought emergency status has been declared, as water tanker distribution continues to operate routinely to fulfil demand. “So far, there are areas beginning to experience drought, but everything is still manageable through water tanker distribution. No emergency status has been reported,” he said on Monday (27/7). Farhan explained that the eastern part of Bandung City, including Ujungberung and Cibiru sub-districts, is most vulnerable to drought. However, the government has prepared anticipatory measures through regular clean water deliveries. “Almost every day, at least one water tanker is dispatched to a neighbourhood in need. So far, the community’s needs are still being adequately met,” he explained. The Bandung City Government is not solely relying on tankers from the municipal water company, Perumda Tirtawening, but is also receiving support from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and other water sources. “Tanker distribution is handled by the PDAM, while the provision of clean water facilities is also assisted by the TNI and various other sources. Alhamdulillah, this collaboration is running well,” he affirmed. Farhan noted that this preparedness is to ensure residents do not face difficulties obtaining clean water as rainfall decreases. He acknowledged that several areas in East Bandung have water sources utilized by various parties, so the government continues to monitor the water supply situation for the community. “Nevertheless, water distribution has so far been able to anticipate residents’ needs. A similar situation occurred last year, but everything was handled with tanker distribution. This year, we continue to anticipate so that the community remains served,” he said. Farhan also provided an update on the appointment process for the board of directors of Perumda Tirtawening. He stated that the city government has proposed candidate names to the Ministry of Home Affairs and is currently awaiting approval. “We have sent the candidate names to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Now we are just waiting for approval. The main candidate comes from a professional background outside PDAM, while other candidates are internal, according to the organization’s needs,” he said. Farhan emphasized that the entire appointment process for regional-owned enterprises must comply with central government regulations and cannot be decided unilaterally by the regional head. “Regional-owned enterprises must obtain approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs. So the entire process is carried out according to applicable regulations,” he stated. In addition to addressing drought management, Farhan outlined that the Bandung City Government is currently prioritizing increasing the Green and Blue Open Space Index as part of efforts to improve environmental quality. This index measures not only the area of green open space but also the quality of vegetation, water sources, and air cleanliness. “We are now pursuing the Green and Blue Open Space Index. The assessment is not just about the area of green land, but also vegetation, water sources, and air quality,” he concluded. Farhan admitted that air quality in Bandung remains a major challenge, as the city has one of the highest air pollution levels in Indonesia, dominated by particulate matter from diesel vehicles. “We must continue to improve air cleanliness in Bandung. This is one of the environmental development priorities going forward,” he added.