Indonesia sees rising trend in disasters - BNPB

The agency's chief, Lieutenant General Suharyanto, highlighted that these disasters, particularly volcanic eruptions, are influenced by factors such as population growth, environmental management, and climate change.

"Despite the annual rise in numbers, the risk level tends to decrease due to concerted efforts in mitigation, preparedness, and effective early warning systems, facilitated through cooperation between communities and authorities," he explained.

His remarks followed his observation of residents from Girikerto village in Sleman, Yogyakarta, conducting a self-evacuation drill on Thursday to prepare for potential risks from Mount Merapi's eruption, according to BNPB in a statement Friday.

Suharyanto noted a significant increase in disaster incidents from volcanic eruptions in 2024, notably citing the recent eruption of Mount Marapi in West Sumatra, which occurred about two months ago and resulted in 72 fatalities and significant material damage.

Initial assessments by BNPB revealed that Mount Marapi currently has only two out of 56 planned check dams to be completed by 2026 for lava flow mitigation, whereas Mount Merapi already has over 200 check dams in place as barriers.

Regarding Mount Ruang in Sitaro, North Sulawesi, he stated that delayed early warnings and evacuations could have resulted in casualties, as around 830 residents still live near the mountain, where two villages were completely devastated by the eruption.

Next, Mount Ibu in West Halmahera, North Maluku, recently erupted, leading authorities to initiate emergency response efforts despite its downgrade to level III or "Alert", resulting in 1,500 families remaining displaced.

In East Nusa Tenggara, Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki and Mount Ile Lewotolok are currently experiencing eruptions and are categorised as "Alert".

Meanwhile, Suharyanto commended communities near Mount Merapi for their readiness and exemplary emergency response, monitoring, and preparedness.

He emphasised the importance of heeding warnings, citing the 2021 Mount Semeru eruption, which claimed 57 lives, and a subsequent lahar flood in 2023 that caused casualties due to disregarded warnings.

"If we defy nature or violate established guidelines, there will be consequences that must be faced. This must be approached with composure, vigilance, and not recklessness," he added.

-- BERNAMA