Kupang – At least 137 villages in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) are in need of government food supplies following a harvest failure, a local official says.

NTT Food Reliance Agency head Petrus Langoday said Monday the number of villages at risk in Lembata, Rote Ndao and Alor regencies was previously 102.

"Data show that areas prone to food shortages have risen over the last week, including six villages in Ngada regency and 29 villages in West Sumba regency," said Langoday, adding that 6,000 people were effected by the shortages.

He said based on observations by the local agriculture office, the food shortages were likely caused by lack of rainfall during the planting season.

He said residents had to learn not to be dependent on rice as their main food supply.

"There are still a lot of tubers and beans available that can endure drought since they only need a little water compared to rice."