The death toll from a devastating landslide in Indonesia's West Java province has risen to 70 as rescue teams recover more bodies from the debris. Operative Information Center-OMM, citing the Antara news agency, reports that search and rescue operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
Ade Dian Permana, head of the Bandung Search and Rescue Office, stated that the natural disaster has impacted a total of 158 people. While 78 individuals have been successfully rescued, the confirmed number of fatalities has reached 70. Currently, 10 people remain missing and are feared to be trapped under the mud and rubble.
The incident occurred on January 24 following several days of intense torrential rains. Approximately 230 residents have been evacuated to temporary shelters in safer zones, as some residential settlements were completely buried under layers of earth. Officials have emphasized that the risk of further landslides remains high in the region, and necessary security measures are being implemented to protect the local population.
Landslides and floods are common occurrences in Indonesia during the rainy season, which typically runs from October to April. The archipelago's geography, characterized by steep terrain and deforestation in certain areas, often exacerbates the impact of seasonal downpours. West Java is particularly vulnerable to such disasters due to its high population density and mountainous topography.
