BNPB Head Suharyanto stated that constructing permanent housing is crucial, considering that Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki's status has returned to Level IV (Warning) since May 18, after the previous major eruption in November 2024.
"Considering the development of the situation, there is no other alternative but to relocate the community to areas outside the 7-kilometer radius," Suharyanto noted in his statement in Jakarta, Friday.
He emphasized that although 450 families are currently living in temporary housing, the government is committed to providing more suitable and secure permanent housing.
Hundreds of families have left their destroyed homes for over six months since the November eruption. Those who live within the hazardous zone were evacuated to tents and are now residing in temporary housing.
"However, temporary housing is only temporary. The community has the right to permanent and comfortable housing," Suharyanto emphasized.
During a coordination meeting between ministries and institutions in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, on Thursday (May 22), Suharyanto said that all parties had agreed to accelerate the relocation and construction of permanent housing in Noboleto Village.
The central and local governments will collaborate to accelerate the process.
"The show home has been constructed so the community can see directly the quality of the permanent housing. We ensure no resident returns to the dangerous zone," he remarked.
The BNPB has also approached the community to ensure voluntary and participatory relocation. The government guarantees that the relocation will not only focus on safety but also on the long-term quality of life of affected residents.
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Translator: M Riezko, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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