Four Indonesian volcanoes erupt as lawmakers call for stronger disaster readiness

The simultaneous eruptions of Mount Anak Krakatau, Mount Ibu, Mount Ili Lewotolok and Mount Semeru have put Indonesia’s disaster readiness under renewed scrutiny.

Ade Ginanjar, a member of the House of Representatives’ Commission V, said the eruptions should prompt closer coordination between agencies and stronger mitigation systems. The four volcanoes reportedly erupted on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

“

We must not view each eruption as an isolated event. The state must ensure that all systems are ready to face the possibility of widespread impacts on communities and national connectivity

He said the episode offered an opportunity to test whether disaster mitigation, transport, meteorological and search-and-rescue systems could operate as one. “We must not view each eruption as an isolated event. The state must ensure that all systems are ready to face the possibility of widespread impacts on communities and national connectivity,” Ade said in a statement.

Ade called on the Geological Agency and the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation, together with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency, to turn information into operational warnings quickly. Data on volcanic activity, ash direction and height, wind and weather conditions, and possible effects on airspace and sea routes should reach the Transportation Ministry, the National Search and Rescue Agency, local governments, transport operators and the public.

He said mitigation depended not only on detecting threats but also on rapidly converting information into preventive action. “People need information that is clear, fast and consistent. That is why one set of data, one coordination system and one response protocol must continue to be strengthened,” said Ade, a Golkar Party politician.

“

People need information that is clear, fast and consistent. That is why one set of data, one coordination system and one response protocol must continue to be strengthened

Ade urged the Transportation Ministry to increase vigilance over volcanic ash risks to flights and shipping, particularly along ash-dispersal routes. He said the effects of an eruption should be anticipated beyond the area immediately surrounding a volcano, including along connected transport corridors.

He also asked authorities to inform the public early about possible cancellations, delays, route changes and service recovery. “People should not learn about disruptions only after arriving at an airport or port, or while they are traveling. Information must be provided as early as possible so people can make safe decisions,” he said. The National Search and Rescue Agency should also prepare personnel, equipment, communications and rescue scenarios for potentially affected land, coastal and maritime areas.

“

People should not learn about disruptions only after arriving at an airport or port, or while they are traveling. Information must be provided as early as possible so people can make safe decisions