Clean Water Restored in Pidie Jaya by ITS

Communities in Pidie Jaya, Aceh, are beginning to regain access to clean water following the installation of a treatment system by Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS). The initiative responds to the challenges faced after recent flash floods and landslides, which disrupted access to safe water in the area. 

The system was installed at Raudhatul Mukarramah Al Aziziyah boarding school, a location chosen for its limited water access and proximity to a nearby river as a raw water source. As a community hub, the pesantren is expected to support both students and surrounding residents. 

Developed by ITS researchers over the past five years, the system can treat turbid river water to produce clean water, with a capacity of up to 2,000 litres per hour. It is designed for practical use, typically operating 8–10 hours per day depending on local needs, and features a compact, portable design. 

The treatment process uses electrocoagulation to reduce turbidity without chemical additives, followed by sedimentation, filtration, membrane treatment, and UV disinfection to ensure water safety. This approach helps keep the system efficient while maintaining relatively low operational costs. 

The project brings together ITS’ Center for Sustainable Infrastructure and Environment Studies, the Directorate of Research and Community Service, alumni associations, and industry partners such as PT Adhi Karya, PT PP, PT WIKA, and PT Selaras Alam Varia Energi. 

To support continued use, students at the boarding school received hands-on training in operating and maintaining the system. With simple maintenance requirements, the system can be managed independently by the local community. 

This initiative offers a practical step toward restoring access to clean water while supporting longer-term community needs in Pidie Jaya.