In a heartbreaking event on 21 January 2024, a landslide in Pekalongan, Central Java, Indonesia, has left 16 people dead and 10 others injured, with five more still unaccounted for.
Triggered by heavy rainfall, the disaster struck in a region known for its hilly terrain, complicating rescue operations.
Details of the Incident
The landslide occurred on Monday, amidst torrential rain that has impacted the area severely. According to Doni Prakoso, the police chief of Central Java’s Pekalongan city, rescue teams are urgently trying to locate those still missing, while 10 injured individuals have been taken to nearby hospitals.
- 16 confirmed dead
- 10 individuals injured
- 5 people still missing
Challenges in Search and Rescue
Bergas Catursasi, an official from the Central Java disaster agency, noted that rescue efforts have been hampered due to challenging weather and difficult access to the affected area. Volunteers are working alongside official rescue workers, with heavy machinery expected to assist in digging operations.
“We’re racing against time and the weather,” said Catursasi. As rescue workers continue their search, the possibility of finding survivors grows dim.
Indonesia’s Vulnerability to Landslides
Landslides are not uncommon in Indonesia, particularly during the rainy season, which typically spans from November to April. Unfortunately, the country has witnessed other significant landslides in recent years, highlighting the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness.
Past Incidents
For context, in November 2023, flooding caused by intense rains in western Indonesia resulted in 27 fatalities. Similarly, a catastrophic event in May 2023 involving flash floods in West Sumatra led to at least 67 deaths.