LUWU (11 May 2024) - Flash floods and landslides that began on 3 May 2024 have devastated hundreds of districts in Luwu Regency. Although the situation is gradually improving, many residents remain in evacuation camps, while some have returned to their homes to clean up mud and stagnant water.


Amid these improving conditions, victims face significant challenges in reaching safe areas. Muliani (19), a resident of Gamaru Hamlet in Ulusalu Village, Latimojong District, had to walk 15 kilometers to catch a helicopter that would transport her and her baby to Belopa. Muliani had given birth by cesarean section three months earlier, making this journey particularly arduous. "We carried the baby and left at dawn. I was worried about further landslides," said Muliani when met at the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA) evacuation site at the Regional Planning Development Board of Luwu Regency (9/5).


Accompanied by her husband and mother, Muliani expressed relief at reaching a safe environment. "Thank God we've landed here," she said. MoSA officials and health staff responded swiftly, providing Muliani with baby essentials, milk, blankets, and sarongs. Muliani added that she would be temporarily housed at her family's home in Kadong-Kadong Village, West Bajo District.


Nursida (45) shared her story of evacuation in the same location after a landslide hit her house. "I was already asleep when the incident happened. When I woke up at 3 am, the house was full of mud, and the road had turned into a river," said Nursida. The flood and landslide struck early on Friday, 3 May, around 1:17 am. Nursida and her family sought refuge at a neighbor's house, which had escaped the flood, for a week.


Nursida was forced to evacuate because access to her house in Ulusalu was cut off, complicating the evacuation process. She had no time to bring any belongings. "Thank God, I received various assistance at the MoSA evacuation camp. Our health was checked, and we were given clothes, sarongs, and food. We are very grateful to the Ministry of Social Affairs," said Nursida.


Meanwhile, in Suli District, Irma (45) expressed her gratitude for the public kitchen established by the Ministry of Social Affairs. "I went to the public kitchen to get some food. I haven't been able to cook for several days because the house is still full of mud and there is no clean water," said Irma. She noted that the MoSA public kitchen, set up with Tagana and the Palopo City Social Office in Suli District, was a tremendous help. "The food is delicious, Alhamdulillah. Each pack of rice comes with chicken, fried noodles, or vegetables. It's a balanced meal. We, the evacuees, want to thank those who work in the public kitchen," Irma stated.