Landslides haunt 516 villagers

Landslides haunt 516 villagers

PURWAKARTA, West Java: At least 516 people at Pasiripis
village near the West Java city of Purwakarta are threatened by
possible landslides after torrential rains fell for two
consecutive days.

Landslides have already buried and destroyed three houses.

Village officials are on full alert and residents have been
told to prepare for immediate evacuate if it is deemed necessary.

The landslides which destroyed two houses on Saturday occurred
at night amidst a long torrential downpour. Fortunately no one
was hurt.

"Thank God the occupants in the three houses all survived,"
said village chief Udung as quoted by Antara.

Villagers at the village have expressed concern that they find
it difficult to get emergency assistance when needed.

Although the village is only seven kilometers away from
Purwakarta, Pasiripis is a naturally remote village as it is
surrounded by various natural hurdles.