Drought Expands in Banyumas, Forest and Land Fire Threat Increases

The drought disaster in Banyumas Regency, Central Java, is continuing to expand as the dry season peaks. As of early August 2026, a total of 23,269 residents are experiencing difficulties obtaining clean water, while the threat of forest and land fires is also increasing. Based on data from the Banyumas Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) Emergency Operations Post as of 5 August 2026, the clean water crisis has affected 31 villages and sub-districts across 14 sub-districts. Head of the Banyumas BPBD, Dwi Irawan Sukma, stated that the impact of this year’s drought is growing compared to previous weeks. “We are making every effort to meet the basic needs of the community. To date, we have distributed 833,000 litres of clean water to the affected areas,” Dwi said on Wednesday. He noted that the affected areas include Karanglewas, Kemranjen, Cilongok, Sumpiuh, and Lumbir, with villages such as Tamansari, Kedungpring, Rancamaya, and Dermaji requiring regular water supplies. In addition to the water crisis, BPBD is also increasing vigilance against forest and land fires, which are prone to occur during the dry season. Dwi revealed that several fire incidents have already been recorded, burning a total area of 9.3 hectares. The fires occurred in various locations, including Grendeng Sub-district, Pamijen Village, Karangtalun Kidul, and Teluk Sub-district, with the largest fire covering four hectares in Sawangan Village, Ajibarang District. He urged the public to use water wisely and to avoid open burning of land or rubbish, which could trigger larger fires. BPBD Banyumas is collaborating with various parties, including the Indonesian Red Cross, the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Centre, and Dompet Dhuafa, to distribute clean water to affected areas. Residents in need of clean water assistance are encouraged to contact the BPBD Banyumas Emergency Operations Control Centre.