Serang DKPP Optimises 600 Water Pumps to Prevent Harvest Failure

The Food Security and Agriculture Office (DKPP) of Serang Regency, Banten, is optimising the use of 600 water pump units provided by the government for farmer groups as a strategic measure to mitigate the risk of harvest failure due to the threat of a prolonged dry season.

DKPP Serang Head Suhardjo stressed that the irrigation equipment must be immediately readied for use. “These pumps must be fully maximised by farmer groups in the field,” Suhardjo stated on Thursday.

In addition to relying on the pumps, the DKPP is emphasising the importance of farmers immediately starting the planting cycle earlier to avoid missing the window of water availability. “While some areas are still experiencing rain, I hope farmers will accelerate the planting process,” he added.

Suhardjo explained that adjusting the planting schedule is crucial so that the rice growth phase requiring significant water can be completed before the peak of the dry season arrives. By doing so, the crops will be less vulnerable to water supply crises during the grain-filling stage.

“Accelerating planting is a preventive solution. The hope is that by the time the dry season peaks, the rice will already be entering the harvest period,” he said.

He also urged farmers to actively coordinate with field extension officers (PPL) regarding water management and planting schedules. The office has assured that it is ready to provide technical solutions immediately if farmers report problems in the field, aiming to prevent widespread crop failure.

To date, the agricultural sector in Serang Regency is reported to be in good condition, with no reports of land suffering damage due to drought. As a further step towards sustainable food security, the DKPP has also proposed assistance for agricultural infrastructure to the central government covering an area of 1,599 hectares. This intervention programme includes the rehabilitation of irrigation networks, the construction of drilled wells, and the revitalisation of small reservoirs as reserve water sources.