PRAYER, Waspada.co.id – The landslide that occurred on the Medan-Berastagi route, specifically PDAM Tirtanadi in Sembahe Village, Sibolangit District, Deliserdang Regency, caused casualties.
From the data received, Wednesday (27/11) evening, as many as seven people died because they were buried by landslide material. The seven victims who died were Dimas Nansyah Putra Solin (18), a resident of Pematangsiantar, Jesica Adriani Hutapea (20).
Then, Martin Sinulingga (57) a resident of Lingga Village, Laurensius Sihombing (20) a resident of Palipi, Samosir Regency, Rosmita Br Tarigan (46) a resident of Batu Mbelin Village, Hardiansyah (33) a resident of Perumnas Simalingkar and Yohana Tuti Sitohang (22) a resident of Samosir.
“The seven victims who died have been handed over to their respective families,” said Head of Public Relations of the North Sumatra Police, Police Commissioner Hadi Wahyudi.
Apart from the victims who died, Hadi revealed that 20 people suffered minor injuries and had undergone medical treatment at the nearest hospital so they were allowed to go home.
“As a result of the landslide that occurred, the Medan-Berastagi traffic flow was completely paralyzed,” he said, six landslides occurred in Sibolangit.
“The joint team from the North Sumatra Regional Police, TNI, SAR and Road Hall has succeeded in opening four road access points from the Berastagi-Medan direction which were buried by landslides so that vehicles that were trapped can be turned back to Tanah Karo,” explained the former Biak Papua Police Chief.
Furthermore, Hadi said that for the access route from Medan-Berastagi, the process of cleaning up landslide material was still being carried out so that trapped vehicles could be directed back to Medan.
“Until now, joint personnel are still at the location continuing to work to clean up all the landslide material so that Medan-Berastagi traffic flow returns to normal,” he concluded. (wool/lvz/d2)
MAIN AGUS Editor
What measures can communities take to improve landslide preparedness and response?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Landslide Expert
Editor: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining us to discuss the recent tragic landslide on the Medan-Berastagi route. With us today is Dr. Rini Sumantri, a geologist specializing in landslide prevention and management. Dr. Sumantri, first and foremost, our thoughts are with the victims and their families. Can you tell us more about what might have led to this landslide?
Dr. Sumantri: Thank you for having me. The sorrow caused by this event is indeed profound. Landslides can occur due to several factors, often stemming from geological conditions and human activities. The Medan-Berastagi route is particularly vulnerable due to its steep terrain and heavy rainfall, which can lead to soil saturation. When the soil can no longer support the weight of additional material, a landslide can happen.
Editor: In this instance, we’ve learned seven individuals lost their lives. What can you tell us about the warnings and preventative measures that are in place to anticipate such events?
Dr. Sumantri: It is an unfortunate reality that many regions, including this one, do not have robust early warning systems in place. While meteorological data can predict heavy rains, the response often lacks urgency or effectiveness. Additionally, human activities such as deforestation, construction, and inadequate drainage systems can exacerbate the risk of landslides. Communities need to invest in both infrastructure and education to increase awareness of these risks.
Editor: That’s quite concerning. Could you elaborate on what communities and local governments should do to mitigate these risks in the future?
Dr. Sumantri: Absolutely. There are several strategies that can be implemented. Firstly, it’s essential to conduct regular geological surveys to identify high-risk areas. Communities should also consider reforestation and improving drainage systems to manage water flow more effectively during heavy rains. Moreover, establishing a clear communication plan for emergencies, along with a response team trained in landslide preparedness, can save lives.
Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Are there any successful case studies or examples from other regions that have implemented such measures effectively?
Dr. Sumantri: Yes, there are several examples around the globe. In Japan, for instance, local governments have invested heavily in early warning systems and public education campaigns, which have significantly reduced casualties during landslides. Similarly, in parts of Colombia, communities have adopted rigorous land-use planning strategies, recognizing the importance of respecting natural landscapes and learning to coexist with them rather than constantly altering them.
Editor: That’s inspiring to hear. Lastly, what can individuals do to stay safe, particularly those living in landslide-prone areas?
Dr. Sumantri: Individuals should stay informed about their surroundings and heed any warnings from local authorities. Familiarizing oneself with emergency plans, understanding potential evacuation routes, and participating in community drills can also make a difference. Additionally, it’s crucial to report any unusual ground movement or cracking that may be signs of an impending landslide.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sumantri, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s vital that we turn this tragedy into an opportunity for learning and improved safety measures in our communities.
Dr. Sumantri: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a future where such tragedies become less common through increased awareness and preparedness.