Ministry of Public Works seeks desalination technology for Palue Island

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is seeking technological solutions to restore clean water and sanitation access for earthquake victims in Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Dody Hanggodo has initiated contact with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to explore technologies capable of converting seawater into fresh water, specifically to serve the residents of Palue Island.

The geographical challenges of Palue Island, including the presence of an active volcano, make finding traditional water sources difficult. The earthquake caused significant damage to local infrastructure, with 481 out of 495 clean water facilities reported as heavily damaged, primarily affecting rainwater harvesting tanks. Additionally, 302 out of 371 sanitation facilities in the Palue district sustained severe damage.