Lumajang, East Java (ANTARA) - Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Suharyanto, suggested that the regional government establish a centralized evacuation center on Mount Semeru in Lumajang, following the practice at Mount Merapi, Central Java.
"This concept is modeled on the practice at Mount Merapi, where evacuation facilities are also equipped with space for livestock, logistics, and community activities, helping ensure that evacuations are more organized and minimize disaster risks," he said in a statement on Wednesday.
According to him, the construction of a centralized evacuation center in Lumajang must be multifunctional, serving both as a venue for year-round community activities and as a safe shelter during disasters.
"A centralized, integrated evacuation center will ensure residents can evacuate quickly, safely, and comfortably. If the infrastructure is ready, the disaster mitigation process runs more effectively, and long-term risk mitigation can be implemented," Suharyanto emphasized.
He also drew attention to the importance of vigilance regarding annual eruptions, especially for residents living in red zones, or areas prohibited for settlement due to high risk.
"Residents' placement in safe locations is key to safety, although education and dialogue efforts are still being carried out to ensure they understand the risks and evacuation procedures," he remarked.
Meanwhile, the head of Lumajang District, Indah Amperawati, welcomed the BNPB's suggestion and supported the plan to build a centralized evacuation center.
"This is part of a sustainable mitigation strategy and ensures the safety of residents remains a top priority," she added.
Amperawati mentioned that this step is part of a long-term mitigation strategy, with cross-agency coordination between BNPB, local governments, the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI), the National Police, and relevant ministries, ensuring that preparedness, evacuation, recovery, and community education can be carried out simultaneously and effectively.
Mount Semeru erupted on November 19 at 16:00 local time, with an eruption column observed at approximately 2,000 meters above the summit.
Three people suffered severe injuries, and 204.63 hectares of agricultural land were damaged by the eruption.
To date, the local government and the Geological Agency have maintained Mount Semeru's status at Level IV, or Alert, to anticipate potential further activity.
This also became the basis for the determination of the Natural Disaster Emergency Response Status, which is still in effect until December 2, by the Lumajang District Government.
