Students of the Thematic Community Service Program (KKN) of Diponegoro University (UNDIP) have realized technology-based innovations to support the management of clean water networks in Mapagan Hamlet, Lerep Village, West Ungaran. In this program, they developed an interactive map of the clean water distribution network in the area. This work was carried out between October and November 2024 in response to the various challenges of managing clean water in local hamlets. The map was designed using GIS (Geographic Information System) technology and followed a systematic software development methodology, from needs analysis and planning to creating output in the form of maps. This program is under the guidance of supervising lecturers, Mr. Yuli Christiyono, ST, MT., Mrs. Yayuk Astuti, S. Si, Ph. D., and Mr. Pangi, ST, MT, which aims to support the digitalization era in water resource management. Hopefully, this map will be efficient and effective in managing clean water networks in Lerep Village, especially in Mapagan Hamlet.
In Mapagan Hamlet, Lerep Village, West Ungaran District, most of the community has enjoyed access to clean water through PDAM. However, some residents still depend on wells or the PAMSIMAS system. PDAM dues are managed by residents who collect money and record the water discharge used. Diponegoro University students made a clean water network map to improve clean water management in this area. This map was created through field observations based on discussions with the Head of Mapagan Hamlet and Management Officers. With this map, it is hoped that the management and distribution of clean water can be more efficient and help identify areas that still need attention regarding clean water accessibility.
The map was made after conducting interviews and discussions with the Head of Hamlet, so that several obstacles and problems related to clean water in Mapagan Hamlet were obtained, namely:
Limited data and information on the clean water network can result in difficulties in identifying areas that require further improvement or development.
The condition of the clean water network infrastructure has experienced leaks or damage several times, disrupting distribution to homes and making it inefficient.
The instability of the water discharge comes from the water pipes supplied to homes, especially at certain times, such as the dry season.
The results of interviews and field observations showed several fundamental problems related to the clean water network in Mapagan Hamlet. First, limited access to clean water is still a significant issue; even though most of the community has been connected to PDAM, residents still rely on wells or the PAMSIMAS system. This creates inequality in clean water accessibility. In addition, the lack of data on the water distribution network makes management difficult because there is no clear information about the existing pipes and connections. The poor condition of the infrastructure is also a concern, where many pipes experience leaks and damage, reducing the effectiveness of water distribution. This map will help plan infrastructure repairs, improve the distribution system, and simplify the process of installing new connections for the Mapagan Hamlet community.
The map has been running, and the DPL has approved the latest results, so the Thematic Community Service (KKN) students of Diponegoro University handed over the product at the Lerep Village Hall, West Ungaran District, Semarang Regency, attended by Mr. Fatoni as the Head of Mapagan Hamlet with enthusiasm and positive responses.
Creating a clean water network map in Mapagan Hamlet is a strategic step taken by Diponegoro University students to overcome various existing problems. With this map, it is hoped that the management and distribution of clean water can be carried out more efficiently, as well as making it easier to identify areas that require more attention regarding water accessibility. The handover of the map product to the Head of Mapagan Hamlet at the Lerep Village Hall was greeted with enthusiasm and positive responses, indicating community support for this initiative. Through good collaboration between students, managers, and the community, the clean water services in Mapagan Hamlet can improve, providing long-term benefits for all residents.
Author: Haidar Hafizh Ali Yaasiin