"In 2026, Tanah Datar District is re-proposing the construction of sabo dams, including one in Jorong Duo Koto, Guguak Malalo Village, which was damaged by flash floods," said Eka Putra, Tanah Datar District's Head, in Tanah Datar on Sunday.
Previously, the Tanah Datar District also proposed the construction of three sabo dams affected by the Mount Marapi cold lava flood disaster. The water resources infrastructure project has cost up to Rp249 billion (around US$14.8 million) and will soon begin construction.
The three sabo dams will be built in Batang Lona, Sungai Jambu Village, Pariangan Sub-district; Batang Anai in Singgalang Village, and Batang Pagu-Pagu in Pandai Sikek Village, both located in Sepuluh Koto Sub-district.
Putra said the construction of a sabo dam in Guguak Malalo is critical, as local residents rely on the Batang Malalo River for rice field irrigation, drinking water, and community-based sanitation needs.
Related news: Disaster survivors in Agam begin life in new temporary shelters
Meanwhile, Guguak Malalo Village Head Mulyadi said the flash flood that occurred in late November 2025 caused the sabo dam in Jorong Duo Koto to collapse.
He added that flash floods struck three locations in Guguak Malalo Village, making the construction of three sabo dams necessary to prevent similar disasters in the future.
In Jorong Duo Koto, flood debris—including large rocks, wood, and sand—is currently trapped at floodgates, raising concerns that it could trigger further disasters if not addressed promptly.
“The check dam will be extremely beneficial because it can control water flow, especially during the rainy season,” he said.
Related news: Indonesia ensures 9,145 temporary homes for Sumatra disaster victims
Related news: Temporary housing crucial to prevent prolonged stays in shelters
Translator: Muhammad Zulfikar, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
