Kudus BPBD prepares 12 mobile water tanks to tackle drought

Kudus (ANTARA) - The Kudus Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) in Central Java has prepared two water tank trucks and 12 units of mobile water tanks with a capacity of 2,500 litres to anticipate the impacts of drought, as one of the efforts to overcome clean water difficulties for local village residents. “These mobile water tanks can then be placed in several villages where residents are experiencing clean water shortages,” said Acting Head of Kudus Regency BPBD Eko Hari Djatmiko in Kudus on Friday. With the presence of these water tanks, he hopes residents no longer have to wait for clean water distribution from the BPBD to arrive at their location; they can simply collect water from the tanks provided in their villages. Meanwhile, for clean water distribution, Kudus BPBD has two tanker truck fleets with capacities of 5,000 litres and 3,000 litres. This does not include assistance from other parties, such as the Kudus PDAM or private companies. Kudus Regent Sam’ani Intakoris added that besides the BPBD’s readiness, the Kudus Regency Government is also anticipating the potential for an extreme dry season predicted to occur this year, by collaborating across sectors, from PDAM to the private sector, to ensure the availability of clean water in affected areas. “These efforts are focused on drought-prone points so that clean water aid distribution can be carried out effectively,” he said. He revealed that the extreme dry season, referred to by experts as the “Godzilla” El Niño phenomenon due to its strong intensity and widespread impact, needs to be responded to with quick and collaborative steps. Several areas such as Kaliwungu and Undaan Sub-districts are estimated to be the most affected by the dry season, although several other areas are still being monitored. The Kudus Regency Government is also encouraging active roles from villages in preparing independent water reserves, such as through the procurement of water tanks or Pamsimas. “If villages are already prepared independently, that is even better. The government just needs to strengthen and assist if needed,” said Sam’ani.