Indonesia's Central Java province is grappling with the aftermath of devastating landslides that have tragically claimed the lives of 30 individuals. As rescue teams persist in their efforts, 21 people remain unaccounted for following the natural disaster.
The catastrophe unfolded in two distinct regions: Cilacap, struck last week, and Banjarnegara, which experienced the brunt of the landslides over the recent weekend. Torrents of rain triggered these destructive events, leading to widespread damage and displacement.
Intensified Search in Banjarnegara
Banjarnegara has emerged as the worst-affected area, where rescuers made a somber discovery on Thursday, unearthing seven more bodies. This grim find brought the death toll in Banjarnegara to 10, with 18 residents still listed as missing. The landslides here severely damaged dozens of homes, injured seven individuals, and necessitated the evacuation of over 900 residents.
Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for Indonesia's disaster mitigation agency, stated that more than 700 dedicated rescuers, including police and military personnel, are actively engaged in the search operations. They are utilizing excavators to accelerate the search through the extensive debris.
Challenges and Continuing Operations
Despite their unwavering commitment, rescuers face significant hurdles. Muhari highlighted, "We face several obstacles in the search, particularly with landslide ponds filled with debris and continuously flowing waters also risks new landslides due to rains." The precarious conditions mean the threat of further landslides looms as rains persist.
Meanwhile, in Cilacap, rescue efforts this week led to the recovery of four more bodies, elevating the death toll there to 20. Three people are still missing in Cilacap, prompting authorities to extend search operations into the following week. Nearly 400 residents have been evacuated from this area.
Seasonal Risks Persist
Indonesia's weather agency has indicated that the nation's wet season, which began in September, is expected to continue until April. This prolonged period brings with it an elevated risk of floods and extreme rainfall across numerous regions, underscoring the ongoing vulnerability to natural disasters.