Three Days After The Natuna Landslide Disaster, Communication Networks At Disaster Locations Begin To Connect

Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) Lt. Gen. Suharyanto stated that the progress of handling landslides in Natuna Regency, Riau Islands on the third day after the disaster of the communication network began to improve.

"On the third day after the disaster, there was already a better progress," said Suharyanto in a written statement quoted by ANTARA, Friday, March 10.

Suharyanto detailed several progress developments that have been seen in the field starting from the recovery of the communication network system. According to the Head of BNPB, the national telecommunications network service provider on Serasan Island has repaired the BTS tower equipment so that it can resume operations since 12.00 WIB.

As a backup, the Head of BNPB also said that there were several satellite telephone devices provided by BNPB, Korem and Headquarters.

Suharyanto ensured that all devices could be used at any time in an emergency.

All communication tools are already running. There are five BTS that are already operating. BNPB also has two satellite calls, from Korem, Headquarters, there are five satellite phones that can be used," he explained.

Furthermore, Suharyanto said that until the third day, road access was still cut off due to closed avalanche material. The main obstacle faced in the road clearing process is very dynamic weather conditions, and rain still often occurs.

The Head of BNPB ensured that the government through the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) would add heavy equipment so that the closed lane could be opened with a two-day work target.

The PUPR will open the road for a maximum of two days. The landslide, which was blocked by a road of approximately 150 meters, will be tried for two days to penetrate," said Suharyanto.

As for the road access that can be connected, electric poles will begin to be installed and restored so that electricity needs can return to normal.

According to him, seven poles collapsed due to being affected by landslides.

There were seven poles that collapsed. If the road is already open, the poles will be installed," said Suharyanto.

Alluding to the basic needs of refugees, the Head of BNPB ensured that there was no problem with everything needed by residents in the evacuation area. Refugees are certain to have no shortcomings in fulfilling clean water

In addition, assistance for refugee residents to this day continues to arrive. The Central Government through BNPB also sent assistance again with a total of 16 tons by sea.

The head of BNPB stated that all aids that had arrived in Serasan would soon be distributed, in accordance with the results of the coordination carried out.

The basic logistics needs of the 1,216 refugees have been supported to this day. From the central government through BNPB, there are already 16 tons that have arrived on Serasan Island," explained Suharyanto.

"On the basis of yesterday's coordination, it must also be immediately distributed to the affected communities," he concluded.