Water subsiding due to quakes

PALU, Central Java: The water level in many parts of the quake-prone province has dropped significantly, due to frequent earthquakes over the past two years, Antara reported yesterday.

A number of earlier surveys showed that some areas had water sources, but more recent surveys have revealed that the sources had disappeared, said Moh. Lili Djadjuli of the provincial office of public works.

"Comparison of the surveys showed that the ground-water level has dropped drastically," Lili said. "I suspect the phenomenon is caused by the earthquakes, some measuring as much as 7 on the Richter-scale."

Lili added that, however, more thorough studies should be conducted. "Such studies are needed for the sake of continued development here."

Nine people died in an earthquake and the resulting tidal waves which hit Tonggolobibi village in Donggala regency, 168 km north of Palu, on January 1st. (swe)