Karangasem BPBD Launches Disaster Service Unit for Persons with Disabilities

The Karangasem Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has launched a Disaster Service Unit for Persons with Disabilities (ULD-PB) to improve inclusive disaster preparedness. The unit was officially formed on Monday (20/7/2026) in response to the high potential for natural disasters in the region, including landslides, floods, and fallen trees.

Head of BPBD Karangasem I Made Aditya Sugiharta stated that the ULD-PB aims to ensure that people with disabilities understand disaster management. “At the very least, persons with disabilities can communicate and recommend strategic actions and know what to do when a disaster strikes,” Aditya said. The unit will establish several divisions and involve community members with disabilities, with plans to implement various programmes over the next five years.

Karangasem Regional Secretary I Ketut Sedana Merta welcomed the initiative, stressing that disaster preparedness must not discriminate. He noted that the regency currently faces 13 potential disaster threats. “We hope disasters never occur, but if they do, everyone must be ready, including persons with disabilities,” Sedana Merta said. He also urged that the launch be followed by concrete activities rather than remaining a ceremonial event.

Deswanto Marbun, Head of the Sub-National Program for Siap Siaga, described the formation of the ULD-PB as a crucial milestone in ensuring inclusive disaster management. He stressed that persons with disabilities must receive protection and be actively involved in disaster response efforts, expressing hope that the unit would serve as a safeguard for vulnerable groups.