Laindatang Water Reservoir Work: From Concrete to Lifeline
Sealing Water Safety Decades Into the Future
Step-by-step construction of Fair Future’s 115 m³ rainwater reservoir in Laindatang—built without electricity, road access, or water, to store and filter clean rainwater for the entire village.
Laindatang reservoir blue coating
In the 115,000-litre reservoir of Laindatang, our Fair Future and Kawan Baik Indonesia teams transformed concrete into a vital water source. Beneath headlamps, immersed in the earthy scent of wet cement, we meticulously addressed the vulnerability of young concrete: microfractures caused by weather fluctuations. Our initial step was applying SIKA by hand, a mineral compound that penetrates deeply, strengthening the structure against potential weaknesses.
Once the SIKA layer hardened, we carefully added six more coats, each purpose-built and precisely applied. Some layers sealed tiny pores, crucial for preventing seepage and enhancing structural stability. Others incorporated antimicrobial properties to inhibit bacterial growth, safeguarding the water’s purity. Specific coatings were designed to insulate, keeping water cool even under the harsh sun. Ceiling applications required methodical patience as gravity challenged each stroke, while long rollers meticulously covered joint areas, familiar sources of contamination.
As the layers built up, the reservoir interior shifted from stark grey to vibrant blue—a carefully selected colour symbolising protection, stability, and health. This hue serves hundreds of families across Laindatang and Hambarita, where clean water is more than a luxury—it’s essential for survival. Our days spent working underground epitomise Water Connections‘ essence: expertly orchestrated technical efforts guided by a compassionate commitment to empower rural communities with safe, dignified living.
Today, the 10th of December 2025 – Alex Wettstein
- Download the updated architectural plans for the Laindatang reservoir here
- Learn more about all nine reservoirs by exploring our dedicated gallery of large information panels placed beside each tank here.
- Explore the interactive project map for Laindatang and Hambarita to see the exact location of each reservoir and related works. View the map here.
- Explore the full online gallery of over 66 images from the Laindatang reservoir project here
In-Short | A chamber built for health
Deep underground, seven layers of protection turned raw concrete into a secure reservoir for Laindatang and Hambarita. This sealed chamber will protect families from waterborne disease and provide a stable water source during months of extreme heat.
Inside Laindatang’s clean water reservoir
Laindatang water reservoir work – inside the blue chamber
Laindatang water reservoir work – sealing a 115,000-litre system for safe water
Inside Laindatang’s 115,000-litre reservoir, our teams from Fair Future Foundation and Kawan Baik Indonesia worked tirelessly under headlamps. Reflecting 16 years of expertise, they faced the rough concrete, riddled with microfractures from heat and wind exposure. The key task was stabilising the surface for waterproofing adhesion. We carefully applied SIKA by hand, embedding mineral compound into the cement to reinforce the structure.
After stabilisation, we added six layers for health: preventing bacteria, cooling water, stopping algae, and joint protection. We adjusted drying times for humidity and carefully worked on the ceiling, using long rollers to reach corners where seepage occurs in rural reservoirs.
After the final layer settled, the reservoir’s interior appeared bright blue, symbolising safe water and its role in protecting villagers in Laindatang and Hambarita. Aesthetics are secondary to function; each coat and motion aim to safeguard health.
Through the Water Connections programme, we demonstrate technical accuracy paired with community partnership—a reflection of Swiss expertise in establishing sustainable health solutions worldwide. This initiative not only embodies collaboration but also reinforces our commitment to standing shoulder to shoulder with the communities we serve passionately.
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – the 9th of December, 2025
List of Related Organisations with Hyperlinks
- WaterAid: Enhances access to clean water and sanitation through community systems and hygiene education.
- UNICEF WASH: Promotes safe water for children with scalable programmes and field guidance.
- WHO Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene: Establishes standards and health risk reduction tools.
- Rotary International: Supports community water infrastructure and technical partnerships.
- Malaria Partners International: Fosters malaria prevention at the intersection of water and health.
- SolarBuddy: Supplies solar lights that enhance safety and study time in communities without grid power.
- CDC Safe Water: Provides practical guidance on water safety and disease prevention.
- Sika Group: A global leader in construction materials, including waterproofing membranes.
