Volcano smokes, public cautioned

PURWOKERTO, Central Java: Increased activity of Mount Slamet has led Governor Mardiyanto to instruct regents to take necessary precautions. The closest regencies around the 3,428-meter-high mountain are those of Banyumas, Pemalang, Brebes and Purbalingga.

He also asked residents to comply with existing rules regarding the volcano's increased activity.

"Orders have been issued against climbing Mount Slamet," Mardiyanto said. "I ask that the instruction be complied with for the sake of all our safety."

Thick smoke was seen up to 200 meters high according to reports received on Monday, Mardiyanto said.

Officials overseeing the eastern part of Mount Slamet said increased activity had been monitored since April 19. Supriyadi Puji of the provincial branch of the state-run Perhutani company said that yesterday's black smoke reached 100 meters high and later increased to double that.

He said the sulfur emanated through the smoke could be fatal to humans. Wild animals have begun to descend and are approaching residential areas, he said.

All climbing routes leading to the mountain peak were closed on Monday. (45)