West Sumatra Police deploy 300 personnel for Solok flood response

The West Sumatra Regional Police have deployed around 300 personnel from the Mobile Brigade unit, along with equipment and logistical support, to support disaster response efforts following a flash flood in Solok District.

West Sumatra Police Chief Inspector General Djati Wiyoto Abadhy said in Solok on Tuesday that police personnel had joined other agencies in carrying out emergency response measures after the disaster struck on Monday evening (Sept. 21).

"Personnel have been deployed to assist in disaster response efforts and evacuate affected residents. We are also continuing to monitor the situation on the site," he told reporters.

Abadhy said that emergency response efforts had been underway since the night of the disaster, with the evacuation of affected residents remaining the top priority.

He added that officers were also working with the local disaster mitigation agency to remove debris and restore road access connecting the affected district with Padang, the capital of West Sumatra.

Repairs and cleanup efforts could take about one week, depending on conditions on the ground, he said.

The police chief also highlighted the possibility of establishing command posts in affected areas to strengthen coordination throughout the emergency response.

Solok District Head Jon Firman Pandu earlier assured that his administration had moved swiftly to respond to the emergency in coordination with various agencies, including the military and the police.

"We have also prepared an evacuation shelter for residents whose homes were damaged or affected by the flood," he said on Tuesday.

He added that the district government had begun assessing the impact of the flood, including mapping affected homes, government offices, and public facilities.

The disaster injured at least four residents and displaced 32 people, according to a report from Solok's disaster mitigation body. Search and rescue efforts are still ongoing.

Related news: DPR speaker urges stronger disaster mitigation after Solok flood

Translator: R. Laila, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo
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