Minister of Public Works: Post-disaster recovery in Sumatra continues
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Public Works (PU) Dody Hanggodo has assured that post-disaster handling, including the recovery of access and infrastructure in the regions of Aceh, North Sumatra (Sumut), and West Sumatra (Sumbar), continues unabated.
“Our work in Aceh is not yet finished, nor in Sumut and Sumbar,” Dody stated during the Youth Generation Silaturahmi event of the Ministry of PU in Jakarta on Thursday.
He explained that the disaster response assignment remains active until April 2026, with a rotation system for volunteers and field staff.
Dody expressed appreciation to the Ministry of PU volunteers who have been directly involved in disaster handling, including the recovery of road access and basic infrastructure in affected areas.
“I extend my thanks to all of you for your dedication over the past few weeks. Stay spirited because there is still much work ahead, and the nation still needs your services,” he said.
He stressed the importance of the role of civil servants (ASN) in ensuring the presence of the state among the people, especially during disasters.
According to him, the Ministry of PU’s duties are not limited to disaster response but also encompass providing basic infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and clean water access in various regions.
“There are still issues with shortages of bridges and clean water provision. What we do is in service. The state is present when its people need it,” Dody remarked.
Previously, the Ministry of PU recorded that by the end of February 2026, progress in post-disaster handling in Sumatra showed significant achievements across various sectors, including raw water and clean water services reaching about 71%, and 153 out of 176 drinking water supply systems functioning again.
In the connectivity sector, all affected national roads and bridges have been restored to 100% functionality, while regional roads have reached about 93% and regional bridges about 63%.
The recovery of this infrastructure is deemed essential for developing community economic activities in disaster-affected areas.
Dody also highlighted the importance of cross-sectoral coordination within the ministry to optimise field task implementation.
During the event, several volunteers shared their field experiences, from limited facilities to physical and mental challenges while serving in disaster-affected areas.
Nevertheless, they expressed pride in contributing to infrastructure recovery and helping affected communities resume their activities.