Mystery of Clear-Water River Appearing at Cisarua Landslide Site in West Bandung

A landslide disaster on 24 January 2026 devastated three villages in Pasirlangu Village, Cisarua Subdistrict, West Bandung Regency, West Java. Dozens of lives were lost, buried under landslide debris consisting of mud mixed with water and large boulders that cascaded down from the foot of Mount Burangrang.

A month later, the residential areas in Pasirkuda Village, Pasirkuning Village and Babakan Village have transformed into expanses of dried earth. The landslide area is now passable for motorcycle riders heading to their plantation gardens located on the hillside above.

Besides earth, there are also large boulders at several landslide points. A small river has also appeared in the area, which residents say did not exist previously. The river has a relatively modest water discharge and its flow is not strong, but the water is remarkably clear.

“Before the landslide, there was no river flow like this. Now there is, and I’m confused about it too,” said Iman Rahmat (45), a local resident, when met on Thursday (26 February 2026).

The source of the river is believed to originate from above the foot of Mount Burangrang, which became the crown of the landslide that buried residential areas. The water flows between the landslide soil spanning approximately 40 metres.

Besides the suddenly appearing river, the landslide site is also scattered with colourful flower crowns. There are even memorial stones deliberately placed by residents bearing the names of family members who have not yet been found.

“There are memorial stones for family members who have not been found. Some still come here to pray for them, they have already accepted their fate,” said Iman.