20 Flood Points In Tanjungpinang Kepri, Hundreds Of Residents Evacuated

JAKARTA - BPBD Tanjungpinang City, Riau Islands Province (Kepri) evacuated hundreds of residents affected by the flood after heavy rains since Friday night, January 10, 2025.

Head of BPBD Tanjungpinang Muhammad Yamin said flood-affected residents were spread across a number of residential areas, including Puspandari, Hang Kasturi, Pinang Kencana, Permata Galaxy, Perkutut, and Sri Katon.

"Based on temporary data, about 20 flood points were recorded in public areas. We have carried out the evacuation process from Friday afternoon to Saturday, January 11, 2025, involving dozens of officers from various related agencies," Yamin said, quoting ANTARA, Sunday, January 12.

He explained that the evacuation process was carried out carefully, especially for residents who needed special attention, such as pregnant women and the elderly with vulnerable health conditions. Several evacuation equipment was deployed by a joint team, such as rubber boats.

BPBD has also prepared posts in Surau, mosques, and houses for residents who are not affected by the flood. Various logistical assistance, including blankets, mattresses, proper clothes, and medicines, has been distributed.

"Health workers are also on alert at every post to ensure that the needs of refugees are met," said Yamin.

He appealed to the public to remain vigilant considering that heavy rains are expected to continue in the next few days.

"Residents were asked to follow the directions of the officers to avoid greater risks," he said. One of the residents of Hang Housing, Kasturi Rizal, said that the flood that submerged his home area had reached the waist of an adult since Friday night.

Floods submerged a number of household furniture, ranging from beds, tables and guest chairs, to cooking utensils.

"Now it's gradually receding, just as adults," he said.