Central Java BPBD distributes 654,000 litres of water to tackle drought
The Central Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has so far distributed at least 654,000 litres of clean water to address drought conditions accompanying the dry season.
BPBD Central Java Head Bergas Catursasi Penanggungan stated in Semarang on Wednesday that all regencies and municipalities have prepared clean water logistical support as an anticipatory measure for this year’s dry season. Based on data compiled by the BPBD, the total availability of clean water prepared by local governments has reached approximately 123 million litres.
“Preparations have been made to face this year’s dry season. From the data we have received, regencies and municipalities have collectively prepared a total of 123 million litres of clean water,” he said.
BPBD Central Java data as of 24 June 2026 shows that clean water distribution has commenced in several areas, with a total of 654,000 litres distributed. Klaten Regency recorded the largest distribution at around 553,000 litres, followed by Purbalingga with 30,000 litres, Banjarnegara 26,000 litres, Cilacap 20,000 litres, Jepara 20,000 litres, and Purworejo 5,000 litres.
In terms of affected areas, he noted that Purbalingga and Klaten each recorded three villages experiencing drought, while Banjarnegara had two villages, and Jepara, Purworejo, and Cilacap each had one village affected.
Beyond water distribution, several regions have also declared drought emergency alert status. As of the end of June 2026, eight areas have established this status: Sukoharjo, Demak, Temanggung, Brebes, Kendal, and Sragen regencies, as well as the cities of Tegal and Salatiga.
He said the potential for drought this year is estimated to threaten at least 18 regencies and municipalities in Central Java, including Demak, Kudus, Pati, Rembang, Blora, Grobogan, Sragen, and Brebes.
Although concerns had arisen regarding rising fuel prices potentially affecting the operational costs of water distribution, Bergas assured that services to the public will continue. The strategy involves local governments maximising their available budgets in June and July 2026 for clean water distribution, while additional needs resulting from increased operational costs will be accommodated through budget revisions.
In addition to water distribution, the Central Java Provincial Government, through the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, is also strengthening water resilience by constructing deep wells and Water Supply Systems.
Consequently, the BPBD is urging residents to begin conserving water and to promptly report through neighbourhood units, village administrations, sub-district offices, or the local BPBD if they encounter difficulties obtaining clean water.
“We urge residents to prepare themselves by conserving and saving water. This is an important step so that we can endure these drought conditions,” he concluded.