Drought affects 92 villages

DEMAK, Central Java: Residents of 92 villages in the regency are running out of water supply due to the severe dry season, an official said on Tuesday.

Head of the regency's social affairs bureau, Supriyono, said 35 villages in the districts of Sayung, Karangawen, Mijen, Wonosalam, Karangtengah, Bonang and Wedung are the hardest hit.

The drought has dried rivers, wells and other water catchment areas where the residents look for clean water for themselves and their cattle.

Supriyono said the local government had planned to supply the residents with between 4,000 and 5,000 liters of clean water every day during the drought.

"The clean water is free, while residents who can afford to pay will be asked to give some monetary incentives to drivers of the water trucks," he said. (lup)