BNPB estimates Rp 40b losses in Padang flood
The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Archipelago | Thu, July 26 2012, 5:49 PM
Go the distance: University students and residents cross a river while carrying some provisions for the victims of a flash flood in Padang, West Sumatra, on Thursday. The flash flood that swept through the area on Tuesday disconnected road access from Kotopanjang and Limaumanis. (Antara/Iggoy el Fitra)
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has estimated that the material losses caused by the flash flood that struck six districts in Padang, West Sumatra, could reach Rp 40.66 billion (US$4.29 million).
BNPB spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho said on Thursday that the flood had damaged 1,003 houses, two school buildings, one community health center (Puskesmas), 11 worship places and 11 irrigation channels.
The flood also tore down the bridge and disconnected road access around the area.
“Losses from damaged houses and public facilities have reached Rp 11.37 billion, while losses from damaged bridges and roads have reached Rp 17.6 billion,” Sutopo said.
The flash flood swept through Pauh, Lubuk Begalung, Nanggalo, Lubuk Kilangan, Kuranji, Bungus Teluk Kabung and East Padang districts on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. The BNPB reported that Pauh district was the most affected area, with no less than 64 badly damaged buildings.
Two people were injured when the flood hit those areas. As of now, around 3,636 residents have been evacuated.
The BNPB, along with officials from the Indonesian Military (TNI), police, Health Agency, Public Works Agency and Indonesian Red Cross are now taking care of the refugees. (fzm/lfr)
