PROBLEM

Laindatang and Hambarita villages in East Sumba experience prolonged dry seasons and recurring water crises. During drought periods, families face extreme difficulty accessing safe and affordable water.
Many households depend on distant water sources or must purchase water at high cost — placing a heavy financial burden on low-income families.
Limited water access also affects:

- Hygiene and sanitation practices
- Risk of waterborne diseases
- School attendance and learning conditions at SD Negeri Laindatang

Without reliable water storage infrastructure, communities remain highly vulnerable during dry months.

Solution

Through Laindatang Water Connections – Phase IV, a reinforced concrete rainwater harvesting reservoir with a storage capacity of 114,000 liters (114 m³) was constructed on school-owned land at SD Negeri Laindatang.

The system includes:

- A 75.6 m² rainwater catchment roof
- Gutter and piping network
- Two-stage filtration units
- Overflow and drainage safety mechanisms
- Community-managed distribution system

The project was implemented using a participatory approach, engaging more than 30 community members throughout construction. A Village Water Committee was formally established to ensure long-term operation, maintenance, and financial sustainability.

The Expected Impact

The project was designed to create measurable, long-term improvements:

- Improved Access to Clean Water
Reliable year-round water supply for Laindatang and Hambarita residents, including students and teachers of SD Negeri Laindatang.

- Reduced Household Expenses
Lower dependence on purchased water, easing financial pressure on vulnerable families.

- Better Public Health
Improved hygiene practices and reduced risk of waterborne illnesses.

- Environmental Sustainability
Promotion of eco-friendly rainwater harvesting and reduced pressure on groundwater sources.

- Community Empowerment
Locally managed system with clear maintenance mechanisms and shared responsibility.

- Support for Education
Better sanitation and improved learning conditions within the school environment.

The Project Result

The project was completed within five months and is now fully operational.

Key results include:

- Reservoir filled (114 m³) during the peak rainy season
- System operating according to technical design specifications
- No structural cracks or leakage detected during inspection
- Filtration and overflow systems are functioning properly
- Minor refinements identified for rain catchment optimization (non-critical)
- Formal handover completed to SD Negeri Laindatang
- Village Water Committee established (5 members)
- Monthly maintenance contribution system agreed:

- IDR 5,000 / household
- IDR 50,000 / school
- More than 210 direct beneficiaries now have improved access to clean water, including:

- 160 community members
- 90 students and teachers
The reservoir serves as the primary water source during dry seasons, significantly strengthening local water resilience.

Project Cost

Rp 336,332,645