TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Mitigation Agency (BNPB) on Tuesday started to distribute logistical assistance for the victims of the devastating landslide in Natuna, Riau Islands. The agency initially sent out four refugee camps, 100 smaller tents, 500 blankets, 500 mattresses, 15 electricity generators, 1,500 food supply packages, and other essential needs.

The agency has also mobilized a search and rescue (Basarnas) team and volunteers in hopes to find more survivors.

“We are backing the search effort and evacuation by mobilizing the Basarnas team and volunteers for the disaster mitigation effort,” said BNPB head of communications Abdul Muhari on March 7.

Muhari said the Head of BNPB took a flight from Jakarta’s Halim Perdanakusuma Airport at 1:20 p.m. WIB aboard a Hercules C-130 aircraft. Suharyanto is scheduled to arrive at Sadjad Ranai air base, Natuna, in the afternoon.

"Upon arrival in Natuna, the Head of BNPB will lead a meeting for emergency management of landslides with all elements of the Natuna Regency forkopimda," he said.

Natuna was hit by a disastrous landslide on March 6th which claimed the lives of 10 people and 42 people were still reported missing. There are at least 1,216 people who were displaced from their homes that are now temporarily accommodated at local health centers, houses of worship, and schools spread in the region.

M ROSSENO AJI

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