Humbang Hasundutan, December 3, 2025 Ribaknews.id
SAR Operations Officially Closed After One Week of Response
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has officially concluded Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in Panggugunan Village, Pakkat District, following a week-long emergency response to the devastating floods and landslides that hit Humbang Hasundutan since November 25.
The official closure took place on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, marking the end of the joint rescue mission involving multiple agencies. Afterward, the BNPB delegation visited the Humbang Hasundutan Regency Government to formally bid farewell.
The farewell meeting was held in the Regent’s Office at Bukit Inspirasi, Doloksanggul, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. BNPB was represented by the Expert Staff to the Deputy for Emergency Management, Colonel (Navy) Samuel Panggabean, and welcomed directly by the Regent of Humbang Hasundutan, Dr. Oloan Paniaran Nababan, SH, MH.
Two BNPB Personnel Remain to Assist Local Government
During the meeting, Colonel Samuel Panggabean explained that although the central BNPB team is returning to Jakarta, two officers will remain stationed in Humbang Hasundutan to support ongoing post-disaster activities.
“Even though we are returning home, coordination will remain open. Two of our staff will stay to assist the local government in post-disaster support,” he said.
He emphasized that the current priority is no longer determining the cause of the disaster, but focusing on post-disaster handling—particularly psychological support, trauma reduction, and assistance for affected residents and evacuees.
Humbahas Government Extends Emergency Response Status
Regent Oloan Paniaran Nababan expressed deep appreciation for BNPB’s commitment and teamwork during the seven days of emergency response. He affirmed that disaster management is a moral obligation of the government to protect and serve the community.
To ensure continuity of recovery efforts, the Regent announced the extension of the emergency response period for an additional seven days. The extension provides administrative and operational flexibility in delivering aid, repairing damaged infrastructure, and coordinating assistance from the central government.
“This extension will facilitate faster and more effective handling of the ongoing disaster impacts,” the Regent stated.
Local Government Submits Official Request for Additional Aid
The Humbang Hasundutan Regency Government has formally submitted a letter to the Head of BNPB requesting additional assistance. This letter serves as the legal platform for fulfilling the urgent needs of disaster-affected residents.
These needs include logistics support, emergency shelter, infrastructure repair, heavy equipment deployment, and psychosocial services for survivors.
BNPB also encouraged structured and continuous post-disaster recovery, including environmental rehabilitation and strengthening local mitigation capacity. Colonel Samuel emphasized the importance of BNPB–BMKG collaboration for disaster early-warning systems.
Strengthening Mitigation and Early Warning Systems
Regent Oloan Nababan expressed hope that collaboration between BNPB, BMKG, and the local government will continue, especially in strengthening disaster mitigation efforts informed by accurate data and early warning systems.
“This disaster reminds us of the importance of preparedness. We hope BNPB and BMKG can support us with real-time disaster detection and mitigation strategies,” he said.
With the closure of SAR operations, Humbang Hasundutan officially enters the recovery phase. Local authorities, supported by national agencies, continue to provide assistance to ensure the safety, recovery, and well-being of disaster-affected communities.
Jonaer Silaban
