SAR Team Evacuates Elderly and Pregnant Woman Following NTT Earthquake

The Joint SAR Team intensified medical evacuation and sweeping operations in four earthquake-affected districts in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on Thursday (20/8). This step was taken following aftershocks that shook the region.

Basarnas Operations Director, First Admiral TNI Yudhi Bramantyo N.S, stated that operations are currently focused on four main areas: East Manggarai, Manggarai, Ngada, and Nagekeo Regencies. The main focus of officers is to ensure the condition of residents on the ground and to evacuate vulnerable groups requiring immediate attention.

During the operation, the field team successfully evacuated an elderly person from the Mandiri Post in Ronting, East Manggarai, to the Police Post to obtain more adequate protection. In addition, a pregnant woman was also evacuated to the Ministry of Health Health Post in Damer, Satar Padut Village, North Lamba Leda District, to receive intensive medical care.

This quick action was taken after a 5.7 magnitude aftershock struck at 09.47 WIB or 10.47 WITA. First Admiral TNI Yudhi Bramantyo emphasised that all SAR elements remain on full alert, especially after another aftershock reached magnitude 6.0. His team continues to collect data and monitor the condition of the community together with the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and local governments.

“We continue to focus SAR operations on sweeping affected areas, collecting data and monitoring community conditions together with BPBD and local governments, while ensuring medical evacuation readiness for residents in need,” said Yudhi.

In addition to physical sweeping, the SAR Team is strengthening cross-sectoral coordination with the Ministry of Health Health Post to accelerate response for residents experiencing health problems or injuries due to the earthquake’s impact. The public is urged to remain calm but vigilant against potential further aftershocks.