Search efforts continue after deadly landslide in Central Java

Wednesday 22 January 2025 - 10:35

Rescue operations in Indonesia persist as authorities work to locate survivors following a deadly landslide in Central Java, which claimed the lives of at least 19 people. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall in Pekalongan, occurred on a key road connecting the city with the popular tourist destination of Dieng Plateau. Footage revealed the extent of the destruction, with the road, homes, and rice fields buried under debris, mud, and rocks.

Due to the inaccessibility of the site, rescuers had to walk approximately 2.5 miles to reach the affected area. While efforts to clear the debris with an excavator were underway, continuous rain and dense fog complicated rescue operations.

Abdul Muhari, spokesperson for the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), reported that two bodies were recovered on Wednesday morning, bringing the death toll to 19. The victims were among those previously reported missing. Additionally, 13 people were injured, and around 200 rescuers have been mobilized to aid in the search.

With the threat of more rainfall and possible flash floods, authorities have warned that the region remains at high risk for further landslides. The local government declared a two-week state of emergency in the district to facilitate continued rescue operations.

Indonesia’s rainy season, from November to April, often brings landslides, but severe weather-related disasters have occurred outside this period in recent years. In December, flash floods claimed 10 lives in hilly areas of Java.