Padang, West Sumatra (ANTARA) - The Indonesian National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) said it is focusing on search operations for disaster victims in West Sumatra, deploying 1,154 personnel across all affected areas.“Search and rescue operations in West Sumatra are being carried out intensively by Basarnas together with the military, the National Police, local governments, and the community,” Basarnas Search and Rescue Manager Djefri D.T said here on Tuesday.
Djefri explained that all victim data has been verified and submitted to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), while Basarnas focuses on field search operations. To strengthen the efforts, Basarnas received support teams from Jakarta, Central Java, and West Java, totaling around 150 personnel currently en route to West Sumatra via SAR vessels.
A helicopter has been deployed for medical evacuations and logistics distribution, with two additional helicopters expected soon, bringing the total to three.
Djefri noted that Agam District in West Sumatra has reported the highest number of missing persons, estimated at 70-75 people. Search operations in the area require heavy equipment, but access for transporting such machinery remains blocked due to damaged roads.
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“Residents can still carry out daily activities, but bringing heavy equipment or SAR tools by land is not possible yet. Helicopters help deliver logistics, but heavy equipment remains an urgent need,” he said.
SAR teams also face health risks as some bodies have been at the site for more than five days. Basarnas has requested additional support, including vaccinations and health supplies, to ensure the safety of all personnel in the field.
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Finally, Djefri urged all parties to remain vigilant and enhance preparedness to minimize the risks of hydrometeorological disasters.