Increasing Access to Potable Water for Communities Affected by the Tsunami

IRD is currently working to rehabilitate the Lambaro Water Treatment Plant (WTP) in Banda Aceh in order to provide potable drinking water to the llocal communities. Currently the WTP produces 45,000,000 liters of water per day to the city of Banda Aceh.

IRD’s maintenance of the Lambaro WTP includes:
• Repair of critical mechanical and electrical equipment
• Replacement of filter underdrains and floors
• Installation of new dosing equipment

In addition to the repair and maintenance of mechanical equipment, IRD is also training employees in the operation of the plant. IRD has developed a strong working relationship with the local government as well as with other agencies in the training of plant operators. Partners in this endeavor include the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. These organizations collaborate with IRD to accomplish the long-term goals of equipment replacement and training of operators.

To date, five pumps have been removed for reconditioning, new chemical dosing pumps have been ordered, two filters have been excavated and dismantled, and twelve valves have been overhauled to increase production. IRD also addressed a critical water and sanitation crisis by quickly implementing a program to remove large amounts of sludge from the treated water reservoir.