Ministry of Public Works develops water infrastructure in Wanam, Merauke

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is preparing seven deep wells in the Wanam National Food, Energy, and Water Production Center (KSPEAN) in Merauke, South Papua, to secure water supplies for agriculture. Geoelectric surveys conducted in early October 2026 indicate that each well has the potential to produce approximately 1–2 liters of water per second from aquifers located at depths of 60–70 meters.

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that these measures support President Prabowo Subianto’s vision of strengthening national food security and building reserves amidst global uncertainty. The project aims to establish new food granaries outside of Java.

As of October 1, 2026, approximately 40 hectares of rice have been planted in pilot plots at Kilometer 21. The first harvest is expected between early and mid-November 2026. In addition to the wells, the Ministry has constructed 133 kilometers of irrigation and flood control channels, with a total target of 180 kilometers.