Nagekeo Remains Isolated Post-Earthquake, Power and Communication Severely Disrupted

Nagekeo Regency in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province is facing significant challenges in the aftermath of a recent earthquake, with the region remaining largely isolated. Disruptions to communication networks and electricity supply are severely hampering the monitoring of affected areas and the delivery of essential aid to residents.

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It is indeed difficult for us to communicate with the Nagekeo Police Chief because the communication channels and electricity are not yet stable there, so the reports are intermittent.

Irjen Pol Rudi Darmoko, the provincial police chief, highlighted the difficulties in coordinating with local police in Nagekeo due to the unstable communication and power situation. "It is indeed difficult for us to communicate with the Nagekeo Police Chief because the communication channels and electricity are not yet stable there, so the reports are intermittent," Rudi stated.

Adding to the challenges, aftershocks continue to rattle the Nagekeo region. Emergency personnel are working to clear access routes to isolated areas to facilitate the distribution of aid and supplies. A particular focus is on Tenda Kinde village in Wolowae District, where hundreds of residents are sheltering at the village office and have been relying on their own resources for daily necessities, reportedly pooling funds to purchase basic goods.

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Information like this is what we hope to continue to be conveyed to us so that we can follow up immediately in the field.

To address the communication breakdown, the national police headquarters has dispatched portable Wi-Fi units to the affected area. These devices are intended to improve connectivity for residents and aid workers, thereby streamlining coordination and response efforts. Rudi urged for continuous updates on the conditions of residents in the affected areas to ensure prompt action by the authorities.

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Mabes Polri has also sent 10 units of portable Wi-Fi and is prepared to assist areas affected by internet connectivity disruptions.