TRENGGALEK – Trenggalek’s regional water utility has launched a major water distribution upgrade program aimed at reducing pipe leaks, improving service quality, and ensuring a more stable clean water supply across its service areas.
Perumda Tirta Wening, the regional water company, has begun a series of improvements that focus on strengthening both its transmission and distribution networks. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to enhance water quality and customer service.
Director Khoirul Ansori said the company started the program by conducting a comprehensive assessment of technical and non-technical issues affecting the water system.
“Our focus begins with mapping the problems. After that, we move to implementation, followed by realization of the improvement plan and evaluation of the results,” Ansori said.
The assessment identified pipe leaks as one of the most urgent challenges. Leaks in transmission and distribution pipelines have contributed to water losses and disrupted supply in several service areas.
To address the issue, Perumda Tirta Wening has prioritized repairs to damaged sections of the network. The utility expects the work to reduce water loss and improve service reliability for customers.
The company is also upgrading a pipeline bridge in the Watulimo–Prigi area. The structure plays an important role in delivering clean water to communities in the coastal region. Officials believe the improvement will strengthen distribution and reduce operational disruptions.
Another key project involves optimizing the use of the ground reservoir at Bukit Jaas. Although the facility has significant storage capacity, the utility has not used it to its full potential.
The reservoir can help stabilize water supply, particularly in areas that depend on bypass distribution systems. By maximizing its use, the company hopes to improve service consistency during periods of high demand.
Engineers have also identified uneven water pressure as a recurring problem in several neighborhoods. Customers connected to the same network often receive different pressure levels, affecting the fairness and efficiency of water distribution.
To solve the issue, the utility plans to install additional air valves and pressure-control equipment. These devices will regulate pressure inside the pipeline network and help protect infrastructure from damage.
Perumda Tirta Wening is also replacing aging customer water meters. The program targets meters that have exceeded their technical lifespan. Officials expect the replacements to improve billing accuracy and support efforts to reduce non-revenue water losses.
The utility has also scheduled capacity upgrades in Gandusari and Kampak districts. Existing pipelines with a diameter of 1.5 inches will be replaced with larger 3-inch pipes.
The larger pipelines will increase water flow and improve distribution across the two areas. Officials expect residents to benefit from a more stable and evenly distributed supply.
Through these improvements, Perumda Tirta Wening aims to strengthen Trenggalek’s clean water infrastructure and gradually deliver more reliable services to customers throughout the regency.