Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo reminded the public to prepare by taking requisite precautionary measures against the threat of natural disasters during this rainy season.

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast quite heavy rainfall in December this year.

“People in Kudus District should especially be concerned because frequent natural disasters hit the area,” Pranowo remarked after visiting a local radio station on Wednesday.

Pranowo stated that Kudus was prone to natural disasters due to factors comprising geological conditions and the forests in the Muria Mountains, which need reforestation through mutual cooperation among the Pati, Jepara, and Kudus district governments.

All stakeholders, including residents, must take care of the green area to avoid natural disasters, he remarked.

“This is because a reforestation area can take up to 10 years to withstand the possibility of flooding, including the Kendeng Mountains, which also need attention from across regions,” Pranowo noted.

He reminded related stakeholders to start working immediately on reforestation since the process may take a long time, including planting trees.

The governor also urged the district and city governments to provide education and distribute disaster maps to the community.

“With heavy rainfall like this, the personnel of Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) need to be on alert, including regarding their logistical needs,” Pranowo emphasized.

He also urged the BPBD to conduct evacuation drills to train their personnel and residents in responding to and handling natural disasters.

“Hence, if heavy rainfall and a potential disaster occurs in a vulnerable area, it can be anticipated,” he stated.

Speaking in connection with the flood that hit Wonosoco Village, Kudus District, on November 2, which caused damage to a resident’s house, Pranowo remarked that the evacuation had been conducted, while the victims had received assistance.

Source: Antara News