Hutama Karya Leads Multi-Regional Irrigation Projects Targeted for Completion by End of 2025

Indonesia is accelerating nationwide irrigation infrastructure rehabilitation and upgrades. PT Hutama Karya (Persero), a state-owned construction enterprise, has confirmed the launch of multiple irrigation network and canal improvement projects across several provinces, covering strategic agricultural regions in Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi. The major construction works are scheduled for completion by December 2025.

These projects are part of the Indonesian government’s broader agricultural infrastructure enhancement program, aimed at addressing aging irrigation canals, declining water conveyance efficiency, and uneven water distribution in key farming areas.

Projects Span Key Agricultural Regions

According to official information released by Hutama Karya, the current phase of irrigation upgrades consists of six contract packages distributed across multiple provinces, primarily located in major food-producing and densely populated regions, including:

• Central Java

• West Java

• East Java

• Riau

• North Sulawesi

The contracts were formally signed in early September 2025, with construction activities commencing shortly thereafter.

Scope Covers Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Canals

Unlike earlier initiatives that focused mainly on main canals, this round of projects adopts a more comprehensive approach, covering primary, secondary, and tertiary irrigation channels to restore the integrity of the entire irrigation network.

The main construction scope includes:

• Structural rehabilitation of primary and secondary canals

• Lining and reinforcement of secondary and tertiary channels

• Replacement of aging gates and water control structures

• Restoration of water conveyance and regulation facilities

The total planned length of rehabilitated and upgraded irrigation canals exceeds 76,190 meters.

More Than 10,000 Hectares of Farmland to Benefit

Once fully completed and operational, the upgraded irrigation systems are expected to directly serve approximately 10,702 hectares of agricultural land. These areas are primarily used for water-intensive crops such as rice, where stable irrigation is essential for consistent yields.

The Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) noted that systematic canal rehabilitation can significantly reduce water losses caused by leakage and inefficiencies, thereby improving overall water use efficiency and agricultural productivity.

Alignment with National Food Security Objectives

Hutama Karya stated that the irrigation projects are part of Indonesia’s Land Optimization and Agricultural Infrastructure Development Program (OPLAH). The program is designed to improve water availability, support increased agricultural output, and strengthen national food security.

In recent years, the Indonesian government has repeatedly emphasized the critical role of irrigation infrastructure in advancing agricultural modernization and enhancing self-sufficiency in food production. These projects are regarded as a key implementation step toward those policy objectives.

Construction Management and Safety Measures

In terms of project management, Hutama Karya confirmed that all works are being executed in accordance with Indonesia’s prevailing engineering and safety standards, including full implementation of the Construction Safety Management System (SMKK).

The projects also prioritize local workforce participation, with local labor accounting for more than 80% of the workforce in certain locations. Coordination with local governments and farmer groups is being maintained to minimize disruption to ongoing agricultural activities during construction.

Next Steps

According to the current schedule, the irrigation canal rehabilitation and upgrade works are expected to reach substantial completion by the end of 2025, followed by phased commissioning and operation. The Indonesian government anticipates that the improved irrigation infrastructure will significantly enhance water supply reliability, support agricultural stability, and reduce risks related to flooding and seasonal water shortages.

Sources:
PT Hutama Karya (Persero) – Official Releases
Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR), Indonesia