Sinkhole in Central Aceh Threatens Gayo Coffee Existence, Task Force Urges Comprehensive Mitigation
The sinkhole in Kampung Pondok Balek, Ketol District, Central Aceh, continues to expand, with the National Road Implementation Agency (BPJN) Aceh estimating its depth at approximately 85 meters and the affected area covering three hectares. The phenomenon poses a direct threat to the existence of the renowned Gayo coffee, as it engulfs fertile agricultural land and disrupts transportation access crucial for distribution. Additionally, a regional electricity transmission tower has reportedly collapsed into the hole, threatening the power supply.
On Friday, 12 June 2026, the Sumatra Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR), along with BPJN Aceh and PT Hutama Karya, conducted a field visit. Technical observations revealed that the soil within the sinkhole area is extremely soft and muddy, dominated by volcanic ash material with minimal rock content. This composition makes the soil layer highly susceptible to subsurface erosion, particularly during heavy rainfall or seismic activity, which accelerates the formation of underground cavities and triggers further collapse.
New findings indicate that the sinkhole’s expansion, which previously trended towards the upstream area of the Peusangan River, is now moving towards the Lake Laut Tawar region. Lake Laut Tawar is a critical ecological and economic asset spanning over 5,000 hectares, supporting fisheries, tourism, and agriculture in the Gayo Highlands. The shift in direction has prompted the Task Force to recommend daily monitoring, regular updates to warning signs, and the installation of barriers to prevent public access to the danger zone. Geological and hydrological studies are underway to map underground water flows and test water diversion as a mitigation measure.
This action follows a visit by Task Force Head Tito Karnavian in April 2026, who urged the formulation of strategic and concrete solutions to minimise the impact on the community and environment. The initiative is mandated by the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Cultural Affairs Decree Number 25 of 2026, which tasks the Task Force with coordinating the resolution of field obstacles to ensure effective post-disaster recovery. The findings are expected to serve as a basis for ministries, local governments, and academics to develop a comprehensive, cross-sectoral approach for long-term protection of the community, infrastructure, and environment.