Jakarta (ANTARA) - Member of Commission VIII of the House of Representatives (DPR) Mahdalena urged the government to prioritize the safety and health of residents affected by the eruption of Mount Semeru in East Java.
“If any resident is injured and requires treatment, the government must ensure that optimal health services are provided. No victim should be left untreated,” Mahdalena said on Thursday.
She stressed that protecting residents must remain the main focus as volcanic activity increases at the highest mountain on Java Island.
“The government must immediately address the impact of the Semeru eruption. Authorities must be present and provide the assistance communities need. Evacuation posts and basic necessities must be prepared without delay,” she said.
Mahdalena noted that volcanic eruptions can last for an extended period and disrupt community activities, leaving residents vulnerable to health issues and safety risks.
“This situation must be anticipated so that the various negative impacts of the disaster do not lead to further casualties,” she said.
She called on the government to identify affected areas and ensure the provision of basic services for residents.
She emphasized the need for clean water, food supplies, and emergency health services, particularly for injured residents who require immediate medical attention.
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Mahdalena also highlighted the importance of distributing masks evenly to protect communities from exposure to volcanic ash.
“Providing masks is essential to prevent continued exposure to volcanic ash,” she said, noting that mask use is important for both evacuees and residents still living within affected zones.
Mount Semeru erupted on Wednesday, November 19, at 4:00 p.m. local time. The volcano’s alert status has been raised to level IV (alert).
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The National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has intensified evacuation efforts for residents in Lumajang District, East Java, as a precautionary measure against further eruptive activity.
Basarnas Deputy for Operations and Preparedness Edy Prakoso said the deployment of personnel aims to strengthen evacuation efforts for residents in vulnerable areas or within the radius exposed to volcanic material from Mount Semeru.
