After Being Torn By Strong Winds, The 2024 PON Basketball Venue Can Be Used Again Until It's Complete

JAKARTA - The 3X3 basketball PON XXI Aceh-Sumut 2024 was finally completed on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Multipurpose Hall, the National Hope Stadium Complex (SHB), Aceh.

Earlier on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at around 12.30 WIB, strong winds hit the SHB Multipurpose Hall, causing the window glass to burst and hit the audience in the stands.

Six people were injured, two of whom were immediately rushed to Meuraxa Hospital. Luckily, there were no more severe victims in the incident.

However, the strong winds traveling 20-30 knots (37-55 km/h) which caused the SHB Multipurpose Hall to be torn apart made the 3X3 basketball match delayed.

At that time, the 3X3 women's basketball match between North Sumatra vs South Sulawesi which was taking place was temporarily suspended.

Organizers also moved quickly to clean the Multipurpose Hall area of SHB. As an emergency step, the committee immediately installed a paranet to replace the damaged glass.

After being declared safe, finally the SHB Multipurpose Hall can be reused two hours after the incident.

"The wind was so strong that it hit the window. Some of the glass and frames fell off the wall. Some spectators were hit by broken glass in the back and hands," said technical delegate basketball 3x3 PON 2024, Trianti, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.

Until the top 3X3 basketball party on Thursday, September 19, 2024, there were no obstacles approaching. All matches were completed.

In the women's category, the gold medal was won by DI Yogyakarta followed by East Java (silver) and West Java (border).

Then, the men's category medals were obtained by East Java followed by North Sulawesi (silver) and West Java (border).

Meanwhile, the incident received direct attention from Menpora Dito Ariotedjo.

"The committee moved quickly to provide first aid to the affected spectators, as well as work with the Ministry of PUPR to immediately repair the damage to the venue, even though extreme weather is a big challenge," said the Menpora.

The Minister of Youth and Sports further appealed that the 2024 PON matches be considered to be postponed if extreme weather continues. This was done for the safety of all parties involved.

"Security must be a top priority. If the weather doesn't allow it, it's a good idea to postpone some matches in order to maintain mutual security," said Dito Ariotedjo.

The extreme weather that hit the Banda Aceh and Aceh Besar areas in the last few days has created a big challenge for the implementation of the XXI Aceh-North Aceh PON 2024.

The Minister of Youth and Sports also emphasized that PB PON 2024 must be quick to face natural challenges that can arise at any time.