Indonesia Estimates Rp51 Trillion Needed to Rebuild Disaster-Damaged Infrastructure in Sumatra

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Restoring infrastructure damaged by recent floods and landslides in Sumatra is expected to cost around Rp51 trillion (over US$3 billion), Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) announced on Sunday.

“The Public Works Ministry has estimated an allocation of approximately Rp51 trillion for rebuilding essential infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and clean water facilities,” AHY said.

He emphasized that repairing roads is a top priority, noting that land access is critical for the efficient distribution of logistics and heavy equipment. “Without transportation routes, no matter how large the logistical or humanitarian aid, it will be difficult to distribute it quickly, when speed should be the top priority,” he explained.

AHY further revealed that government data collection is ongoing regarding houses damaged or destroyed by the disasters, with an estimated 112,000 homes affected. “The categories include light, moderate, and severe damage, as well as houses that were swept away or lost,” he added.

The minister called on relevant ministries to map damage levels carefully, pointing out that repair costs vary depending on the extent of damage.

He also highlighted efforts to restore infrastructure and repair thousands of homes through collaboration with the Army’s bridge task force, which has constructed several emergency bridges in affected areas. “We continue to strengthen synergy and collaboration so that ministries, the military, and the police can work effectively in the field,” AHY said.

He expressed optimism that strong inter-agency coordination would accelerate post-disaster recovery and urged public support for the government’s restoration initiatives.