Nagekeo Still Isolated After Earthquake, Electricity and Communications Disrupted

Nagekeo Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, remains isolated after being struck by an earthquake. The situation has hampered monitoring and aid distribution to affected residents, mainly because communication networks and electricity supplies are still unstable.

East Nusa Tenggara Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Darmoko said communication disruptions have prevented optimal coordination with Nagekeo Police Chief AKBP Rachmat Muchamad Salihi. Reports on conditions in affected areas have also been received intermittently.

“Indeed, we ourselves have had difficulty communicating with the Police Chief in Nagekeo because communication channels and electricity are still unstable there, so reports have been intermittent,” Rudi said on Monday (17/8).

In addition to communication and electricity problems, Rudi said aftershocks are still occurring in the Nagekeo area. Officers are continuing efforts to open access to several isolated areas so that aid and logistics distribution can be carried out promptly.

One area of concern is Tenda Kinde Village in Wolowae District, Nagekeo Regency. Rudi has ordered the Nagekeo Police Chief to visit the location immediately because hundreds of residents are still sheltering independently at the Tenda Kinde Village Office.

Conditions there are reported to be quite distressing. Based on information received, residents have not yet received assistance from any party and are still meeting their daily needs through self-help efforts.

Residents are reportedly pooling money to buy basic necessities. They are also relying on remaining food supplies to meet their needs while in the evacuation site.

Rudi asked that information about conditions in affected areas continue to be conveyed to the police so that it can be followed up immediately.

“Information like this is what we hope will continue to be conveyed to us so that we can follow it up immediately on the ground,” Rudi said.

To address communication obstacles, police are prioritising the delivery of connectivity devices to Nagekeo. National Police Headquarters has sent portable wifi units to be installed in affected areas.

The devices are expected to help facilitate communication between residents, officers, and parties involved in disaster response.

“National Police Headquarters has also sent 10 portable wifi units prepared to help affected areas experiencing internet connectivity disruptions,” Rudi said.