Jakarta, INTI - Universitas Mercu Buana (UMB) collaborated with Kelompok Wanita Tani (KWT) Cempaka Asri in Tangerang City, to build modern infrastructure in the form of a Groundwater Tank (GWT) integrated with the Smart Rain Garden concept. This was a part of UMB’s effort to address the challenges of climate change.
The Head of KWT Cempaka Sari, Nyimas Tri Dewi, stated that after receiving training from UMB academics and training in plant care methods from the Tangerang City Environmental Agency (DLH), the KWT members' capacity in managing urban agriculture has drastically improved.
"We have gained new knowledge about agricultural technology and water management. The response from all members has been very positive, and we are grateful to UMB and the DLH," she explained.
Furthermore, the program, which involves intensive outreach to approximately 53 residents, also collaborates with the Climate Village Program (Program Kampung Iklim/Proklim). It is hoped that the Smart Rain Garden-based GWT will not be a short-term project, but rather a long-term asset that will be maintained collectively.
"We hope that KWT Cempaka Sari will become increasingly self-sufficient. The fresh vegetable harvest will not only be consumed locally but can also be sold within the community, such as during social gatherings or PKK activities, to increase cash income and support household finances," said Nyimas.
Sustainable Water Management
Meanwhile, Dr. Ir. Uly Amrina, a supervising lecturer from UMB, stated that the success of this program is due to the synergy between academics, the government, and the community.
"Our concept focuses on sustainable water management. During the rainy season, rainwater runoff is optimally collected to prevent local flooding or overflow in residential areas. In the dry season, the water stored in the underground reservoir is recirculated to irrigate the crops above," she explained.
She added that this project excels because it integrates intelligent technology in the form of a Smart Rain Garden with smart sensors above the underground water reservoir.
"This sensor is capable of detecting soil moisture levels and the water needs of plants, so the vegetation watering process is very efficient and measurable without wasting water," said Uly.
Conclusion
Universitas Mercu Buana and KWT Cempaka Asri colaborated to develop a Smart Rain Garden-based Groundwater Tank (GWT) to support sustainable water management and urban agriculture. This system collects rainwater during the rainy season to reduce the risk of flooding, then reuses it as an irrigation source during the dry season, supported by smart sensors that regulate plant watering efficiently according to soil moisture.
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