Jakarta (ANTARA) - Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq stated that his office found degraded river headwaters and indications of forest and land encroachment for palm oil plantations and illegal mining during a visit to Aceh.
In a statement in Jakarta on Monday, Nurofiq said he observed severe land degradation, with exposed river basin headwaters, unnaturally widened river channels, and landslides directly threatening residential areas instead of supporting healthy ecosystems.
He explained that the situation demonstrates that the flash flood tragedy in East Aceh is not simply a natural event, but a strong signal of serious pressure on the environment's carrying capacity due to illegal activities.
"We came not just to observe, but to ensure that the state is truly present for the affected communities. The safety of the people is paramount, and environmental damage must not be allowed to continue," he said.\
Furthermore, during an aerial survey covering the eastern coast of Aceh, spanning Tusam, Lhokseumawe, Langsa, and Aceh Tamiang, the team found strong indications of forest and land encroachment for illegal palm oil plantations and mining activities, including on hillsides with extreme slopes exceeding 45 degrees.
The practices significantly diminish the forest's function as a natural water regulator and increase the risk of hydrometeorological disasters.
Nurofiq sternly warned that land management in areas with extreme slopes is extremely dangerous and contrary to environmental protection principles. Such illegal practices not only cause forest and land destruction but also threaten the lives of people living downstream.
"No tolerance for violations that damage the environment and endanger the people. We will take firm action against anyone found guilty in accordance with applicable law," he stated.
Following up on the findings, the Environment Ministry (KLH) will immediately conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of forest and land destruction in the affected areas.
The evaluation will include an assessment of forest and watershed conditions, as well as land use changes proven to contribute to increased disaster risk.
The KLH guarantees that some corporations strongly suspected of contributing to the damage will be dealt with firmly through coercive law enforcement efforts.
