Head of Telkom Nabire, Suhendar, reported from Manokwari on Friday that the communication network was severed, likely due to cable damage at several points, including the Nabire–Rasiei, Serui–Botawa, and Timika–Tigi land routes, located approximately 80 kilometers from Mimika.
“All Telkomsel internet, IndiHome, voice, and SMS services are currently down. Residents must rely on satellite-based services to stay connected,” Suhendar said.
He added that the state-owned communication company is prioritizing repairs along the Timika–Tigi route to expedite service recovery in Nabire.
“Repairs are focused on the Timika–Tigi route. I cannot provide an exact timeline yet, as the area is classified as a red zone,” he noted.
Eric M. Tobing, General Manager of Telkom Witel West Papua, stated that the earthquake—located 23 kilometers northwest of Nabire—disrupted TelkomGroup services in Nabire, Botawa, and Enarotali.
To restore connectivity, Telkom and technical teams from Palapa Timur Telematika (PTT) are working to accelerate reconnection along the Kigamani–Timika route.
Restoration efforts are facing challenges due to difficult terrain, including landslides along the terrestrial fiber-optic cable route.
The earthquake struck Nabire at approximately 3:19 a.m. local time (UTC+9), with its epicenter located 29 kilometers northwest of the city at a depth of 24 kilometers.
The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) recorded at least 17 aftershocks following the main quake, with magnitudes ranging from 2.1 to 4.0. The final aftershock was recorded at 4:05 a.m.
The quake also caused minor to moderate damage to several public facilities, including Douw Aturure Airport, the Nabire District Office, Nabire General Hospital, and the collapsed Siriwini Bridge.
BMKG and the Geological Agency have urged residents to inspect buildings for structural damage and avoid cliffs or steep slopes, especially during heavy rainfall.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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