Former Mining Ponds in Samarinda Claim 55 Lives, Surveillance Tightened

The former mining areas in Sungai Pinang, Samareral, East Kalimantan, have become a major safety concern due to the ongoing risk they pose to local residents. To date, accidents in these former mining ponds have resulted in the deaths of 55 individuals due to drowning.

The East Kalimantan Department of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), in collaboration with several other agencies, is tightening surveillance around these mining voids. These efforts are aimed at preventing residents from approaching these dangerous areas and reducing the risk of further accidents.

The regional government is also coordinating with the central government through the Mine Inspector regarding handling measures for these areas. Proposed solutions under consideration include closing the pits or managing the water levels using pumps, with final decisions to be discussed alongside government officials and the local community.

At the local village level, security measures are being prepared, including the installation of banners prohibiting activities around the ponds and issuing formal appeals to residents to stay away from the danger zones.