Indonesia's Public Works Ministry Responds to Sibolga Landslide

Infrastructure Challenges Amid Ongoing Rain

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo reported that access to Sibolga, North Sumatra, remains restricted following recent floods and landslides. The challenging conditions have prevented Ministry teams from reaching the affected areas to assist in disaster response efforts. "Sibolga is still inaccessible due to ongoing rain and landslides," Hanggodo stated during the opening of the International Conference on Construction Innovation (ICCI) 2025.

Preparatory Measures and Coordination

Despite access limitations, the Ministry has taken proactive measures by pre-positioning resources near the disaster site. Hanggodo confirmed that heavy equipment has been placed on standby, with fuel and other necessary resources ready for immediate deployment once conditions improve. The Ministry's teams, including personnel from relevant balai, have been on alert since several days prior to the statement.

Weather Modification Plans

To address the persisting weather challenges, the Minister revealed plans to collaborate with the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to conduct weather modification operations. The initiative aims to reduce rainfall in the affected regions, which include not only North Sumatra but also neighboring areas in Aceh and West Sumatra that have been impacted by similar disasters.

Comprehensive Disaster Response Strategy

The coordinated approach between various government agencies demonstrates a comprehensive strategy to address both immediate relief needs and longer-term infrastructure resilience. By combining infrastructure readiness with meteorological intervention, the government aims to create a multi-faceted response to the natural disasters affecting multiple regions in Sumatra.