Irrigation Channels Run Dry, Rice Fields in Sukabumi Threatened with Crop Failure

Rice fields in Kampung Cibuntu RT 02/06, Sindangpalay Village, Cibeureum District, Sukabumi City, are threatened with crop failure following a significant drop in water levels in irrigation channels. Head of the Sukabumi City BPBD, Yoseph Sabaruddin, said his agency received reports of drought threatening the rice fields in Sindangpalay Village and immediately deployed a team to inspect the conditions on the ground. “The results of the inspection at the location show that the irrigation channels and ditches are currently dry. As a result, several plots of residents’ rice fields have been affected, so the rice plants are threatened with crop failure,” Yoseph said on Monday (13/7). During the inspection, officers also assessed the condition of the waterways and concluded that the channels in the area are prone to disasters during both the rainy and dry seasons. “This area is also prone to flash floods due to extreme weather. Our field officers found many waterways clogged with rubbish, both in the ditches and the irrigation channels,” Yoseph added. The BPBD had previously followed up on reports of drought affecting agricultural land in Cibeureum District, an area known as a key agricultural zone due to its extensive rice fields. The agency continues to remind the public to remain vigilant during the prolonged dry season, particularly regarding potential clean water shortages and land or settlement fires. Residents are urged to use water wisely, avoid burning rubbish carelessly or discarding lit cigarette butts, and regularly clear ditches and irrigation channels to ensure smooth water flow.