Indonesia drought relief: Water distribution expands in Central Java and Gunungkidul

Severe drought conditions in Indonesia have prompted large-scale clean water distribution efforts across Central Java and Gunungkidul.

In Central Java, the Brimob Polda Jateng unit distributed 485,000 liters of clean water to approximately 2,950 residents. The distribution took place in two phases on September 5 and 11, 2026, covering ten different regions including Semarang, Pati, Pekalongan, Sukoharjo, Sragen, Boyolali, Purworejo, Banyumas, and Cilacap. The operation involved various battalions and community groups to meet basic community needs.

Simultaneously, in Gunungkidul, a water crisis has affected 17 sub-districts (kapanewon), with only Playen remaining unaffected. Following the exhaustion of an initial 800-tank allocation, the Gunungkidul Regency Government has secured additional funding through emergency budgets to provide 5,100 more water tanks. This expanded distribution is projected to continue through the end of November 2026 to mitigate the impact of the prolonged dry season.