President Jokowi Calls for Post-Disaster Plan Following Fuel Depot Fire

President Jokowi visits survivors of Plumpang fuel tank explosions in temporary shelters, in Rasela Rawa Badak Selatan, Jakarta, Sunday (03/05). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/ Laily Rachev)

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo ordered the Cabinet to create post-disaster recovery planning over explosions of Plumpang fuel tank owned by state-owned energy company Pertamina.

“I ordered Minister of State-owned Enterprises and Governor of Jakarta to seek solutions since the location is not safe and cannot serve as a residence anymore,” President Jokowi told the press.

According to the President, there are several options for the planning, such as relocating the fuel depot or relocating those living in that neighboring area. The decision will be made by Pertamina and Jakarta Governor in a couple of days.

In addition to Pertamina fuel depot in Plumpang, the President also called for evaluation and audit to other dangerous zones throughout the country. The measure needs to be taken for the sake of public safety.

“The zones must be evaluated since it has to do with someone’s live. I had ordered all ranks to do it,” he said.

He asserted that a plan to establish a 50-m buffer zone that separates residential area and Plumpang fuel depot has been prepared. Yet, the plan has not materialized because the related parties have not provided a solution for the local residents.

“Tanah Merah area is dense and packed. Therefore, we must find a solution. I think public safety, public safety must become the priority,” he said. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/UN) (RAS/ MUR)