Pandeglang Regency in Banten Braces for Earthquake, Tsunami

english.jpnn.com, BANTEN - Pandeglang regency in Banten is in a state of alert against the threat of an earthquake and tsunami.

According Pandeglang Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) emergency and logistics head Emil Salim, the alert is needed to reduce disaster risks.

"We continue to disseminate information to coastal communities, so at least they can rescue themselves if the worst happens," said Emil in his statement, Wednesday (8/12).

The coastal areas of Pandeglang are prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.

Authorities have established the disaster preparedness village program for residents to learn how to save themselves and their families during natural disasters.

The Pandeglang administration has proposed to the central government for the construction of disaster infrastructure, including shelter buildings that can accommodate thousands of coastal residents.

Currently, Pandeglang has only one shelter building in Labuhan. Shelter buildings are needed considering that the time lag for rescue is about nine minutes after an earthquake before a tsunami comes.

Therefore, authorities are expecting shelter buildings in Panimbang and Sumur, where no mountains or hills exist.