Three Palembang Sub-districts Face Clean Water Crisis Due to Prolonged Dry Season
The Palembang city government in South Sumatra has identified three sub-districts in its territory as experiencing a severe clean water crisis. The condition has been triggered by a prolonged dry season that has affected the region over recent weeks.
Palembang Mayor Ratu Dewa revealed that the three areas of primary concern are Sukarami, Sematang Borang, and Jakabaring sub-districts. He made the remarks during a coordination meeting on forest and land fire mitigation, haze, and drought management in Palembang on Monday (25/8).
In response to residents’ difficulties in obtaining clean water sources, the Palembang city government has prepared emergency measures. Ratu Dewa stated that his administration is working with the Tirta Musi regional water company and the Housing, Settlement Areas, and Land Affairs Agency to distribute aid.
“We will arrange the provision of clean water tanks in the three sub-districts. Distribution will be scheduled based on time and the most urgent needs of residents,” said Ratu Dewa.
Beyond the water crisis, the threat of land fires and haze is also a priority for the local government. The mayor has instructed all sub-district governments in Palembang to immediately establish forest and land fire alert posts.
The Palembang Fire and Rescue Service has also been asked to keep fire engine fleets on standby, particularly in locations considered prone to land fires.
The deteriorating air quality caused by haze has begun to affect the education sector and public services. The Palembang city government has issued an advisory prohibiting schools from holding outdoor activities, including flag ceremonies. Similar rules also apply to civil servants within the Palembang city government.
Furthermore, the government is reviewing options to shift teaching and learning activities from in-person to online systems. “The final decision regarding the possibility of online schooling will be taken together with the Palembang City Education Office today,” he concluded.