Government Ensures Rapid, Equitable Distribution of Logistical Aid to Earthquake Victims across All NTT

The Government is making great efforts to ensure that logistical aid for communities affected by the earthquake in parts of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) province is distributed quickly and equitably, reaching even those areas that were severely impacted and are difficult to access, as stated by Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) Suharyanto, following his inspection of the Ruteng Regional General Hospital (RSUD) in Manggarai regency on Sunday (August 16, 2026).

“Manggarai regency is the one that was hardest hit by the earthquake. That is why we are here. There is also Reok district which was reported to be severely affected as well—but we have successfully gained access to it. Earlier, the distribution of logistical aid, coordinated by the Regional Military Commander, have already managed to reach Reok,” explained the Head of the BNPB.

Suharyanto also stated that a national support post has been established and is operational to gather information on needs and to support the distribution of aid to affected communities.

“Aid posts have already been established. The national command post is located at Halim [Perdanakusuma Airport], given charge of gathering all logistical supplies needed,” he said.

An aid post has been established in Labuan Bajo city to serve Manggarai, West Manggarai, East Manggarai, and Ngada regencies. Meanwhile, a post has been set up in Maumere city to serve Sikka, Ende, and Nagekeo regencies.

The Government is also continuing to strengthen connectivity to support the delivery of logistical aid to a number of affected areas, including through the deployment of four Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI) helicopters and two BNPB aircraft stationed in Labuan Bajo city.

“Then, regarding the roads, information from the Minister of Public Works confirms that all routes are already accessible. There are no longer any roads blocked by landslides that would prevent passage,” he added.

In addition to land and air routes, the distribution of logistical aid is also being facilitated via sea routes, particularly to meet the needs of communities in Sikka, Nagekeo, and Ende regencies.

“As for Sikka, Nagekeo, and Ende regencies, the supplies will go directly to Maumere Port. Large aircraft will be deployed, flying into the airport. Two helicopters are also stationed there to reach any locations that might otherwise be inaccessible,” he concluded. (Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of Presidential Secretariat) (AW/TM)