EU funds volcano research

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)