N. Sulawesi Prone To Disasters, Should Boost Preparedness

Manado, Oct 9 (Antara) - North Sulawesi is one of the most disaster-prone areas in Indonesia and therefore all parties concerned in the province should continue to step up alertness and preparedness, Governor Sinyo Sarundajang said on Wednesday. "Both natural and unnatural factors can contribute to this disaster vulnerability and so it is necessary to institute a training program on disaster mitigation," the governor noted. He added that the readiness of human resources as the executor of disaster management should be balanced with the existence of equipment and logistics. "If the human resources are ready, but are not supported by adequate equipment and logistics, disaster management cannot be executed effectively and optimally," Sarundajang pointed out. He further stated that training programs were part of the preparedness in dealing with disasters that might strike anytime. "Wherever possible we have to make every effort to reduce the impact of disasters, and ensuring safety of human lives should be our top of priority during disaster management," the governor said. Meanwhile, Regional Disaster Management Board Chief Hoyke Makarawung pointed out that North Sulawesi was prone to earthquakes, floods, landslides and volcanic eruptions. He said the province had some active volcanoes, such as Mount Soputan in the South Minahasa district, Mount Karangetang in the Sitaro Islands District and Mount Lokon in Tomohon city. "These three volcanoes are very active and can erupt anytime. Therefore, all parties should remain vigilant," Makarawung said.