TNI Accelerates Construction of Embankments and Sabo Dams in Tukka to Prevent Recurring Floods
JAKARTA – The Indonesian military (TNI) is targeting the rapid completion of embankment and sabo dam construction in Tukka District, Central Tapanuli Regency, North Sumatra, as part of efforts to prevent recurring floods that have previously harmed local communities.
Lieutenant General Richard Tampubolon, Deputy Head of the Sumatera Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force, stated that the project is a priority in the post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction phase in the Sumatra region.
“River normalisation and progress on embankment and sabo dam construction as efforts to prevent recurring floods that have previously impacted communities in Tukka District, Central Tapanuli Regency,” Richard said in a press statement on Sunday, 1 March 2026.
To ensure the project proceeds on schedule, Richard, together with Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo, conducted a direct inspection of the construction site on Thursday, 26 February 2026.
“This inspection aims to ensure the acceleration of construction, rehabilitation, and recovery of post-disaster infrastructure, including the completion of temporary shelters (huntara) and the readiness of basic services before affected residents move in,” he explained.
The three-star TNI officer affirmed the TNI’s commitment to overseeing all stages of post-disaster management in an integrated manner, from emergency response through rehabilitation and reconstruction phases.
“The TNI is present alongside all components in the management phases, ranging from emergency response, the transition from emergency to recovery, to rehabilitation and reconstruction,” he said.
“This support includes evacuation of residents, distribution of logistical aid, healthcare services, and recovery of basic infrastructure to accelerate the normalisation of community life,” he added.
In its implementation, the TNI also coordinates with ministries, regional governments, and other stakeholders to strengthen cross-sector synergy so that the recovery process is rapid and sustainable.
Based on data from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) as of 25 February 2026, the number of displaced persons in Aceh Province, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra has significantly decreased from 2,108,582 people to 11,250 people.
Of the total 11,250 displaced persons, 10,400 are in Aceh Province and 850 are in North Sumatra Province.
Additionally, five villages in two provinces still require restructuring due to the disaster’s impact: three villages in Aceh and two villages in North Sumatra. No villages in West Sumatra require restructuring.
Of the 52 affected districts and cities, 38 areas have returned to normal conditions. Three districts and cities are approaching normal conditions, whilst 11 others still require special attention in the recovery process.