World

BNPB Reviews Tsunami Preparedness in Banten's Coastal Areas

By M Riezko Bima E P, Martha Herlinawati Simanjuntak

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has been conducting preparedness assessments along Banten's coastline since September 6 to evaluate readiness for potential tsunami risks linked to Mount Anak Krakatau's activity, according to Acting Head of the BNPB Disaster Data, Information and Communication Center, Berton SP Panjaitan.

Speaking on Thursday, Berton said the agency's Prevention Deputy Team has been coordinating with local governments, monitoring vulnerable areas, and offering preparedness support, particularly in regions affected by the 2018 Sunda Strait tsunami.

He noted that assessments were carried out in Tanjung Lesung, Sumberjaya Village, and Panimbangjaya Village in Pandeglang District, as well as in several coastal villages in Serang and Cilegon, to verify that early warning systems remain functional.

In Pandeglang, BNPB confirmed that tsunami warning sirens in the Sumur and Panimbang sub-districts were working properly, evacuation routes were clearly marked, and disaster simulations were being held regularly. However, the Warning Receiver System (WRS) Gen in Tanjung Lesung was still under repair at the time of the assessment.

In Serang District, evaluations conducted in Salira Village, Karang Suraga, and Anyar Village showed that disaster risk reduction forums and coastal volunteer groups were functioning effectively, supported by operational sirens and evacuation maps directing residents to safe zones.

In Cilegon, an inspection in Kubangsari Urban Village found that standard operating procedures for early warnings were in place, village facilitators were actively spreading information, and a tsunami siren at the village office was working reliably.

Berton expressed appreciation for the cooperation between local governments and community volunteers in maintaining disaster monitoring infrastructure, saying such efforts play a crucial role in protecting coastal communities from potential tsunami threats.