Bogor Regent voices concerns for residents affected by mine closures

Bogor Regency (ANTARA) - Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto voiced the fate of residents impacted by mine closures in the western area during a community action at Tegar Beriman Field, Cibinong, Bogor Regency, West Java, on Monday.

“We request policy from the West Java Provincial Government to assist Bogor residents by reopening licensed mines,” Rudy stated in his speech to thousands of action participants.

Rudy explained that tens of thousands of residents in Cigudeg, Rumpin, and Parungpanjang subdistricts currently depend on mining activities for their livelihood, thus requiring policy certainty from the provincial government.

He emphasised that the community and local government are prepared to adhere to all provisions and regulations set forth, including a joint commitment to environmental preservation.

According to him, the Bogor Regency Government has also demonstrated seriousness in organising mining activities through plans to develop a dedicated mining transport route.

“This year, we have budgeted for land acquisition for the mining transport route as a solution to avoid disrupting other road users,” he said.

Rudy elaborated that the mining route development phase has now entered location determination, with land acquisition targeted to be completed by 2026 so that physical construction can commence promptly.

He added that the local government has coordinated with the West Java Provincial Government, which is currently evaluating several mines in the western region.

“We appreciate the evaluation process, but we hope the results can be decided soon, especially for mines with permits,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Cigudeg, Rumpin, and Parungpanjang Community Alliance, Dani Murdani, described the economic conditions of residents affected by the mine closures as currently difficult.

“Our community has felt the impact of the mine closures for seven months. We come demanding justice and hope that legal mining activities can resume,” Dani stated.

The action, attended by around 7,720 people, proceeded peacefully under security escort and was marked by calls for the government to promptly decide on the operations of legal mines in the area.