Embassy in Japan to evacuate Indonesians in affected areas

The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo says it is preparing to evacuate Indonesian citizens living in areas affected by Friday’s quake and tsunami.

The embassy said in a press statement sent to The Jakarta Post that it is currently preparing to evacuate 414 Indonesians living in Miyagi and Iwate, which are two of the hardest hit areas. There are currently 25,546 Indonesians living in Japan.

“A team from the embassy is now on its way to Sendai, approximately 164 kilometers from temporary shelters built for survivors in Sendai Senjomachi,” it said Saturday.

“The team will take heavily congested roads instead of highways since the authorities have closed all the highways.”

The team will take with it blankets, sleeping mats and food supplies for the victims, it said.

The team has also prepared to dispense logistics to 100 Indonesians living in Warai and Mito who have taken shelter in schools and houses of worship there.

According to NHK TV, more than 1,000 people are reported missing, 485 people confirmed dead, and 9,000 have been left homeless.