Head Of BNPB Regarding Floods In NTT: National Disaster Status Does Not Need To Be Determined

JAKARTA - Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) Doni Monardo said the central government did not determine the status of a national disaster for the flood disaster in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).

This is in response to the pressure of a number of parties who have pushed the government to determine the status of a national disaster for the hydrometeorological disaster that occurred on Sunday, April 4.

"The status of a national disaster does not need to be determined," said Doni Monardo in a virtual coordination meeting, Monday, April 5.

Doni said, the status of a national disaster emergency is determined if the condition of the regional government is paralyzed. In this way, the central government must take over the responsibility for implementing disaster management.

However, so far all government activities, both at the provincial and district / city levels in NTT are still running. No government has been crippled by disaster.

"The number of refugees who have occurred is still within the limits of the regional capacity to carry out disaster management activities. So, on this occasion we think that there is no need for a proposal to the central government to determine the status of a national disaster. It is enough that the regions determine the status of a disaster emergency," he explained Doni Monardo.

He also explained the development of the evacuation of flood victims in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Currently, 84 people have died. Then, 71 people are still missing and are in search.

"This is a huge number. Let us pray to the victims who have died so that they will have the best place in the side of Almighty God and their families will be given courage," said Doni Monardo.

Doni said the first step by the team in the field, local government, health workers and local volunteers was to find and find bodies. In addition, providing care for injured victims.

Tonight, BNPB and the Ministry of Social Affairs have distributed a number of logistical support to Adonara Island and Lembata. In addition, there have been a number of public kitchens held by the team at evacuation posts.

"Transportation of cargo planes will be proposed tomorrow. We prioritize in refugee areas to get minimum basic needs and medical support," he said.