Handle the Giant Hole in Central Aceh, the PU Ministry Strengthens the Bank

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Public Works (PU) will strengthen the cliff in Ketol District, Central Aceh Regency, Aceh Province.

This followed the phenomenon of a sinkhole or giant hole that appeared in the area, as well as continuing post-Aceh flood handling.

Minister PU Dody Hanggodo said that the handling was not only focused on the landslide point, but also on the triggering factors around it, including water flow and geological conditions of the area.

"There are several items we will work on, ranging from grouting, river handling to strengthening at several points. We must handle it quickly," said Dody as quoted from a written statement, Saturday, February 7.

Based on the results of field inspections, the area is considered not completely safe. There is still water movement below the ground surface that has the potential to increase the collapse if it is not immediately handled.

"I ask that the physical work be done immediately, because when we reviewed it felt there was a tremor. That means, this area is not 100 percent secure. There is still water movement below and we have to stop it," he said.

His party noted that there were two alternative roads (detour) around the location.

The first detour route is about 1.2 kilometers (km) long, while the second detour route reaches about 5.2 km.

Dody emphasized the importance of maintaining the first detour route so that it does not experience further damage.

"We have a second detour that is longer, but I hope this first detour does not collapse. We only have about 80 meters left to save, so I direct that the work can be done immediately," he said.

Technically, the handling will be carried out by the Aceh National Road Implementation Center (BPJN) Directorate General of Road Construction.

The steps taken include controlling the river flow so that it does not overflow into the landslide area, handling the Pasangan River as well as closing and strengthening the cave area indicated as the entry point for water down the detour road.

"From the joint study with the Ministry of PU and Syiah Kuala University, it is indicated that there is an insertion of river water here. Near the river we will close the flow, then between the cave and the detour road we will do grouting so that the water does not enter and does not aggravate the condition," said Dody.

In addition, slope reinforcement around the location will also be carried out to ensure that the collapse does not widen.

Dody emphasized that accelerating handling was very important considering that the surrounding area was a large-scale chili plantation area.

"If this spreads again, new problems will arise, including agricultural production disruptions and potential inflation. That's why I ask that this be done quickly so that the collapse does not spread further," he explained.

According to Dody, his party will continue to secure the area and carry out a gradual handling plan by prioritizing safety, work quality, and the sustainability of road functions and the surrounding area.

"So because there is a lot of work, it will definitely take time. However, the hope is that it will be completed as soon as possible, but we must still maintain quality. So that whatever we do today, it can last a long time into the future," he added.