“Krueng Geukueh Port is now serving as a distribution point for flood relief,” Indonesia’s Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said during an inspection of the port on Sunday.
He explained that access to several flood-hit areas has been cut off due to damaged roads.
Deliveries to North Aceh District and Lhokseumawe can only be made by sea after several bridges in Bireuen District collapsed.
“Meanwhile, relief supplies for flood victims in Pidie District and Pidie Jaya District can still be transported by land. I hope Krueng Geukueh Port can be fully utilized to support flood response efforts in this region,” he added.
Karnavian noted that rice stocks for communities, particularly in Lhokseumawe City, remain sufficient following the floods, though additional supplies are needed to ensure continued availability.
“The Krueng Geukueh Port can also be used to transport essential goods for residents. Until now, most supplies have arrived via land routes from Medan in North Sumatra or from Banda Aceh,” he said.
He further highlighted that the port is being used by the National Search and Rescue Agency to deliver equipment, including rubber boats and other gear.
“After completing this inspection, we will report our findings to the relevant ministries to strengthen flood-response measures in Aceh Province, particularly regarding the distribution of relief supplies,” Karnavian stated.
Heavy rains fueled by a rare tropical cyclone in the Malacca Strait triggered widespread flooding and landslides across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra this week. The death toll has risen to more than 300, with nearly 280 people still missing and around 80,000 residents evacuated.
Rescue operations remain difficult due to collapsed roads, damaged bridges, and limited access to remote communities. Authorities, supported by the military and police, continue search and relief efforts, while emergency shelters and food supplies are being distributed to survivors.
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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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