PRIME NEWS POST
The INDONESIAN – Torrential floods in North Sumatra have severed vital supply routes to Tapanuli Tengah (Tapteng) and Sibolga City. Undeterred, volunteers from Putune Soedirman successfully navigated the blocked roads starting Sunday night, November 30th, to deliver Presidential aid consisting of 2,000 packages of essential food items, ready-to-eat meals, and 1,000 toy packages for child victims in the Tapteng region.
The devastating floods have not only isolated communities but also left behind thick mud and widespread damage to homes along the Barus, Manduamas, and Sorkam roads.
“Throughout our journey, we witnessed firsthand the suffering of flood victims. Many homes were severely damaged, and roads remained submerged in mud. Despite being victims themselves, residents selflessly assisted when our trucks became stuck in the mud. Their compassion was deeply moving. This was a heartbreaking and unforgettable journey,” said Fadli Darus, Secretary-General of the Putune Soedirman Volunteers.
He further explained that the team, comprised of eight individuals in three trucks and one ambulance, was forced to spend a night in the forest due to limited fuel supplies. On Monday night, they divided their efforts, sending a group to Sibolga to secure fuel. Despite facing long lines since midnight, they eventually obtained fuel from the Naval Marines and returned to Bukit Barus to continue their journey to Pandan City.
“Many of the residents we encountered along the way were still struggling to find assistance and clear flood debris from their homes. Damaged roads have made it extremely difficult to obtain basic necessities. They are in dire need of assistance and support,” added Fadli.
In such conditions, even a bottle of drinking water is of immense value to those affected.
Putune Soedirman volunteers persevered through the worst-hit areas from Medan to Pandan, Tapteng, delivering 2,000 aid packages containing ready-to-eat meals, essential food items, and bread.
Upon arrival in Pandan, the volunteers worked alongside local residents to unload the Presidential aid from President Prabowo, which was directly received by the Regional Secretary (Sekda) of Tapteng, Dra. Nurjajilah, to ensure that all assistance reaches those in need.
The Putune Soedirman volunteers also surveyed damaged homes in the flood-stricken area.
Editorial Note:
Reported by the PRIME NEWS POST correspondent, compiled from various media sources. Photo: documentation / public archive
