KM Sinar Bangun Vessel Remains in Lake Toba as Evacuation Stopped
3 July 2018 18:14 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Transportation Ministry Budi Karya Sumadi stated the evacuation of the capsized boat KM Sinar Bangun was officially stopped today, July 3. The shipwreck along with missing victims was not lifted up from the beneath of the waters.
“We lack skilled divers and equipment even though the boat was found 450 meters beneath the waters,” said Budi Karya at his office, Tuesday, July 3.
Budi Karya explained the plan to stop the evacuation efforts had been discussed with the locals and many of them agreed. “But we will help to hold a wreath-laying ceremony, build a monument and other religious events,” he added.
Land Transportation Director General Budi Setiyadi explained that it would be a high risk for the rescue team to continue the evacuation.
Budi said data of the victims had been verified. Jasa Raharja would give compensation Rp50 million per people for 164 victims. “Yesterday, the gubernatorial decree has been made and it will be ready today. Jasa Raharja will pay it immediately,” he mentioned.
The KM KM Sinar Bangun boat was capsized on its way from Simanindo Port, Samosir to Tiga Ras Port, Simalungun, June 18, at around 17:30 local times. North Sumatra Police Chief Insp. Gen. Paulus Waterpau stated the police had named four suspects, the boat captain PSS, Simanindo Port regulator KS, Simanindo Port head GFT, and ferry operator (ASDP) head RS.
CHITRA PARAMAESTI