On Tuesday (12/7/2021), Indonesian President Jokowi directly inspected the location of the eruption of Mount Semeru in Lumajiang Regency, East Java and the handling of its impacts. The President made sure to mobilize all forces to deal with the impact of the disaster.
“This morning I came to the location to make sure all our troops were looking for survivors at the location and then evacuated. We also handle refugees on site. We are also studying earthquake plans to repair damaged infrastructure. Mount Semeru erupted,” President Joko said in a press statement after the review.
In Lumajiang, the head of state visited the refugee camp in the village field of Sumberwuluh. In this place, someone once saw the President greeting the refugees, including children, and giving compensation to the heirs of the victims who died as a result of the eruption of Mount Semeru. In addition, the President also visited public kitchens and sanitation service stations.
“Earlier at the refugee location, I also wanted to make sure that matters relating to refugees were also handled properly, both related to consumption, health, and clean water, I think the condition is starting to improve,” he said.
The President said that the government would also prepare for the relocation of residential areas affected by the eruption.
“Earlier I received a report of approximately two thousand houses that had to be relocated. We will immediately decide where the relocation will be and at that time we will immediately build it because I think everything is ready,” he said.
During his visit, the Head of State also reviewed a number of infrastructure affected by the disaster. One of them is the Besuk Koboan Bridge or Gladak Perak Bridge, which is located in Candipuro District, on the Malang – Lumajang arterial route. The bridge with a span of 192 meters and a width of 9.6 meters collapsed due to the eruption of Mount Semeru.
“We hope that after things subside, everything can start, whether it be in the form of infrastructure improvements or possible relocation from places that we think are dangerous to be inhabited again,” he said.
Closing his press statement, President Joko Widodo expressed his condolences for the victims who died as a result of this eruption.
“On behalf of the government and all the people of Indonesia, I express my deepest condolences for the victims who died as a result of the eruption of Mount Semeru in Lumajang Regency, East Java Province,” he said.
