Floods Hit Three Sub-Districts in Hulu Sungai Tengah, Thousands of Homes Submerged

Hulu Sungai Tengah (HST) in South Kalimantan is grappling with a significant flood crisis after relentless heavy rainfall inundated the Batu Benawa, Barabai, and Pandawan sub-districts. Thousands of homes have been submerged, displacing numerous residents and disrupting daily life. The local disaster management agency (BPBD) and fire department are actively monitoring the situation, with water levels varying across the affected areas.

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The river that is closed makes the flow slow, causing the urban area to be flooded.

While the floodwaters in Batu Benawa have started to recede, Barabai is experiencing continued inundation with rising water levels, and Pandawan faces a persistent increase in water depth. Fortunately, as of the afternoon, no injuries or fatalities have been reported, a testament to the community's preparedness and the swift response of emergency services. The immediate concern for authorities is to manage the water flow and prevent further escalation.

Regent Samsul Rizal has personally visited the affected areas, directing joint task forces to clear blockages in the rivers. The primary culprit identified is the accumulation of tree branches and bamboo debris, which impedes the natural flow of the Barabai River, leading to overflow and flooding in urban areas. The Regent assured that the debris has been cleared, restoring normal river flow, and urged residents to remain vigilant and calm.

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The tree and bamboo debris has been cleared. The river flow is back to normal and the weather is also clear.

From Republika's perspective, this flood serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities in South Kalimantan to natural disasters, exacerbated by environmental factors. While international news might focus on the scale of destruction, our coverage emphasizes the local response and the community's resilience. The Regent's hands-on approach and the mobilization of joint forces, volunteers, and the public highlight a strong sense of collective responsibility. The issue of river blockages due to debris is a recurring challenge in the region, underscoring the need for sustained environmental management alongside disaster response. Our reporting aims to provide a comprehensive view, acknowledging the immediate crisis while also pointing towards the underlying issues that require long-term solutions for flood mitigation in HST.

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The public is urged to remain vigilant and not panic, and to contact the nearest officers if there is anything urgent.