PPLS and Task Force Synchronise Compensation Data for Lapindo Mud Victims; Rp1.5 Trillion Remains Unpaid

The Sidoarjo Mud Flow Control Centre (PPLS) is currently focusing on coordinating with a Task Force to perform validation and synchronisation of compensation payment data for residents affected by the mud overflow. This process includes residents located both within and outside the mapped affected areas.

This step is considered crucial as it involves reviewing historical data from the era of the former Sidoarjo Mud Flow Management Agency (BPLS), as well as payment documents previously handled by PT Minarak Lapdis Jaya. The Head of the PPLS Vertical Working Unit, Willem S, emphasised that this re-investigation is being conducted to ensure the accuracy of field data.

“We are continuously conducting re-tracing to ensure there is no overlapping or incorrect information. Data from PPLS, Minarak Lapindo, and the Sidoarjo Regency Government will all be collaborated within the Task Force to facilitate the smooth process of compensation for residents,” said Willem following a meeting with the Regent of Sidoarjo, Subandi, and Lapindo mud victims at the Sidoarjo Regency Government office on Tuesday.

On the other hand, the issue of compensation settlement still leaves a significant outstanding balance. According to data from the Chairman of the Lapindo Mud Victim Communication Forum, Akhmad Basuni, there are still 200 compensation claim files that have not been settled by PT Minarak Lapindo Jaya. The breakdown of these unresolved files includes 32 files belonging to business groups and the remaining 168 files belonging to affected residents.

“The total unpaid compensation reaches Rp1.5 trillion,” Basuni stated.

Through intensive data synchronisation between PPLS, the Task Force, and the local government, it is hoped that clarity regarding the rights of residents and entrepreneurs, which have been delayed for years, can finally be achieved. It has been exactly 20 years since the first eruption of hot mud disrupted the peace of residents in Porong, Sidoarjo, on 29 May 2006. The Sidoarjo Regency Government has committed to resolving the compensation issues arising from the social disaster of the Lapindo mud, which has been prolonged for approximately 20 years.