Island prepared for eruption victims

Island prepared for eruption victims

MANADO, North Sulawesi: The Sangihe Talaud administration in
North Sulawesi has prepared Biaro Island to resettle 331 families
who were displaced after the recent eruption of Mount Ruang.

Sangihe Talaud Regent J. Th. Makaminan said on Thursday he had
asked the central government to provide Rp 35 billion (US$3.8
million) to develop simple houses, schools, places of worship and
other facilities on the islet.

Mount Ruang erupted on Sept. 24, splitting apart Ruang Island
and forcing residents to flee their homes to nearby Tagulandang
Island.

The IDPs are temporarily staying in shelters in the villages
of Buhias and Bohoi.

"The IDPs can't go back to Ruang Island, which has been
declared unsafe to live on. For their safety and security, we
have planned to relocate them to Biaro Island," Makaminan said.
--Antara.