Indonesia’s Mount Ruang, a volcano in Sitaro Islands District, North Sulawesi, recently experienced a significant eruption that damaged hundreds of houses and several public facilities. The eruption, which occurred on April 18, displaced thousands of residents and prompted emergency response efforts from the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB).
According to Abdul Muhari, the head of BNPB’s Disaster Data, Information, and Communication Center, the eruption caused damage to 498 houses, with 135 houses classified as mildly damaged and 363 as moderately to severely damaged. In addition to residential properties, the eruption affected three public facilities, including two churches and an elementary school building in Tagulandang, a sub-district within Sitaro Islands.
The eruption’s impact extended to the local population, with a reported 11,624 residents affected across 12 villages in Tagulandang Sub-district. The affected villages include Pumpente, Laingpatehi, Mahangiang, Tulusan Barangka Pehe, Apengsala, Lesah Rende, Pahiama, Boto, Leseh, Bahoi, and Balehumara. Most of the affected residents were evacuated to various locations, such as emergency posts, places of worship, and relatives’ homes.
One notable evacuation involved 31 Tagulandang Regional General Hospital (RSUD) patients, who were safely relocated to the Bethel Paninteang Church for temporary shelter and care. This evacuation highlights the coordinated efforts of local authorities and emergency response teams to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals in the aftermath of the volcanic activity.
In response to the crisis, BNPB swiftly initiated relief efforts to address the urgent needs of affected residents. The agency provided essential aid items, including refugee tents, family tents, lighting towers, diesel generators, necessities, ready-to-eat food, antibacterial equipment, mattresses, blankets, masks, velbeds, portable toilets, and refugee survival kits. These provisions aim to alleviate displaced individuals’ immediate challenges and support their resilience during this challenging period.
The eruption of Mount Ruang underscores the importance of robust disaster preparedness and response strategies in volcanic-prone regions. The collaboration between BNPB, local authorities, and humanitarian organizations demonstrates a coordinated approach to mitigating the impact of natural disasters and safeguarding the well-being of communities. As recovery efforts continue, ongoing support and assistance will be crucial in helping affected residents rebuild their lives and communities.
