EU funds volcano research

MANADO, North Sulawesi: The European Union (EU) is sponsoring a study by French experts on the chain of volcanoes which passes through the province, a local official said yesterday.

The chief of the Ministry of Mines and Energy's local office, Ronny Mamesah, said nine experts started studying 10 volcanoes in North Sulawesi last month.

"They will submit their findings to the EU as a basis for further research on the Pacific chain of volcanoes," he was quoted by Antara as saying.

Mamesah said the findings would help the provincial government plan its regional development programs.

Volcanic eruptions have often inflicted great losses on locals. Last week, Mount Karengetang on Siau island erupted, killing three people and forcing 300 people to flee their homes.

North Sulawesi's most active volcanoes are Mt. Awu and Mt. Karengetang in Sangihe Talaud; Mt. Lokon, Mt. Soputan, and Mt. Mahawu in Minahasa and Mt. Ambang in Bolaang Mongondow. (pan)