Indonesia’s VP Gibran Orders Rapid Infrastructure Recovery After Deadly Floods in North Sumatra and Aceh

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has urged swift restoration of infrastructure, including damaged roads and bridges, to support fuel distribution following the devastating flash floods and landslides in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra.

After visiting the evacuation post in Agam District, West Sumatra, Gibran continued his working visit by helicopter to South Tapanuli on Thursday, where he inspected two additional evacuation posts in Garoga Village and Batu Hula Village. Upon arrival, he met with displaced residents and listened to their concerns.

“I express my deepest condolences to the disaster victims. I have been instructed by the President to expedite disaster management and recovery,” he said, conveying greetings from President Prabowo Subianto.

Gibran instructed the local government to accelerate the delivery of logistical assistance by land, sea, and air. He also directed camp administrators to ensure that evacuees receive three meals a day, along with proper sanitation and access to clean water.

President Prabowo has ordered the immediate restoration of fuel distribution routes and a rapid inventory of damaged homes to enable prompt reconstruction by the government.

“The fuel lines will be restored immediately. This is a direct order from the President. Please collect data on damaged houses first. We will ensure that those who have evacuated receive proper services. Many people have raised concerns about school and housing issues. We will assist you,” Gibran said.

After his visits to Agam District in West Sumatra and South Tapanuli in North Sumatra, the Vice President continued his working tour to Aceh Singkil District, Aceh.

The regions of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra have been hit by severe floods and landslides after days of intense rainfall.

According to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), as of December 4, the disasters have killed 776 people, left 564 missing, and affected 3.2 million residents.

President Prabowo Subianto visited several affected regions on Monday and confirmed that the government would airlift essential supplies to isolated communities while ground routes remain inaccessible.