Jakarta (ANTARA) - A research team from the National Research and Innovation Agency's (BRIN's) Geological Disaster Research Center discovered ancient tsunami deposits dating back 1,800 years at multiple sites along southern Java, including the Kulon Progo southern coast.

Based on these findings, BRIN sedimentology researcher Purna Sulastya Putra, in a statement released in Jakarta on Tuesday, highlighted various developments around Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) in Kulon Progo District, Yogyakarta. The ancient tsunami deposits were found approximately two kilometers from the airport.

"We also found younger layers in Kulon Progo. We have previously found these younger layers in other locations, such as Lebak and Pangandaran, indicating that major tsunamis have likely occurred more than once in this region," he revealed.

Putra stated that the growth of infrastructure, including hotels, restaurants, and other facilities, can have a positive economic impact on the community. However, it can indirectly increase the region's vulnerability to potential disasters.

He warned that extensive development conducted without considering disaster risks may worsen the consequences of future extreme events, such as tsunamis.

The researcher stated that every development initiative brings significant benefits. However, in disaster-prone areas, all stakeholders should collaborate with an awareness of risks and utilize scientific data.

"With rapid development in this region, geological disaster research is becoming increasingly important in providing information that can be used as a basis for planning and risk mitigation. One way to do this is through paleotsunami studies," he elaborated.

Through disaster studies, Putra emphasized that his team continues to advocate for integrating scientific findings into the regional planning and development process, especially in disaster-prone areas.

With collaboration between stakeholders, he expressed hope that the research results will move beyond scientific documents and serve as a concrete foundation for realizing adaptive, safe, and sustainable development.

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