Indonesia Landslide Kills 10 as Torrential Rains Cause Havoc in East Java

Fatal Landslide Hits Mojokerto District of East Java

On April 3, 2025, a fatal landslide in East Java's Mojokerto district killed 10 people after heavy rainfall triggered mudslides that swept away cars on a steep road near Watu Lumpang, a hill resort town.

Triggered by days of heavy rains, the landslide sent mud, boulders, and uprooted trees tumbling onto the highway, washing away a van carrying seven members of one family and a pickup truck with three vegetable vendors.

Rescuers and officials worked through treacherous conditions to extract victims and remove debris, highlighting Indonesia's perennial vulnerability to landslides and floods in the October-April rainy season.

Facts of the Landslide Tragedy

The landslide happened on Thursday afternoon when heavy rain had softened the ground on the mountainside, causing debris to cascade onto the Mojokerto road.

The local police chief Andi Yudha Pranata confirmed the deadly loss of 10 lives:

• A van carrying seven people was buried completely in mud.
• A pickup truck carrying three vegetable traders was also covered by the landslide.
• The driver of the van was rescued late Thursday, and the bodies of his parents, wife, three children were recovered on Friday.
• The three traders from the pickup were also recovered dead.

Rescue Operations Amid Challenging Conditions

Rescue operations, led by East Java's Search and Rescue Agency, were greatly impeded by the thick mud, fallen trees, and continuous rain.

Challenges for Rescuers

• Huge volume of debris and unstable terrain slowed progress.
• Continuous rain posed the risk of further landslides.
• Low visibility and dangerous conditions made it difficult to search for victims.

Despite these challenges, rescue personnel were able to extract all victims, bringing closure to grieving families.

Latest Updates from Authorities

In an official statement from the Indonesian National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), authorities are now focused on:

• Clearing the affected road to reopen access.
• Monitoring adjacent areas for further landslide threats.
• Providing aid and assistance to victim families.

Why Landslides Occur Frequently in Indonesia

Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, gets heavy rain from October to April, making it highly susceptible to flooding and landslides.

Reasons Why Landslides Happen in Indonesia

1. Heavy Rainfall – Heavy rain loosens the soil and undermines slopes, making landslides more likely.
2. Deforestation – Widespread tree cutting reduces soil stability.
3. Uncontrolled Land Use – Many people live near mountainous terrains and flood-prone areas.
4. Seismic Activity – Indonesia is situated on the Ring of Fire, and thus landslides are more frequent after earthquakes.

Similar Landslide Incidents in Indonesia

This tragic event is one of a recurring pattern of deadly landslides in Indonesia.

• January 2025: Flash floods and landslides in Central Java killed 16 and some were reported missing. (Source)
• March 2024: Over 20 fatalities in Sumatra after flooding caused by heavy rain.
• February 2023: A massive landslide in West Java killed dozens of people and displaced thousands.

These incidents underscore the urgent need for better disaster management and mitigation strategies.

Government Response and Prevention Measures

The Indonesian government has been undertaking various measures to mitigate the effects of landslides, such as:

1. Early Warning Systems

• Landslide sensors installed in areas prone to landslides.
• SMS alerts and sirens to alert inhabitants of possible landslides.

2. Infrastructure Development

• Reinforcement of road embankments and slope stabilization.
• Better drainage systems to avert the accumulation of excess water.

3. Reforestation and Land Use Planning

• Reforesting deforested hillsides.
• Disallowing illegal development of land in prone areas.

4. Community Preparedness Programs

• Educating the public about landslide dangers and evacuation methods.
• Drilling local disaster response units for quick response.

How Can Future Tragedies Be Avoided?

Though Indonesia's government is working to curb landslide threats, more needs to be done:

1. More Robust Land Use Laws – Banning building in high-risk landslide areas.
2. Improved Drainage Systems – Minimizing waterlogging in flood-susceptible regions.
3. Higher Disaster Response Budget Allocation – More rescue and recovery equipment and personnel.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns – Educating people about early warnings of landslides.

Final Thoughts

The Mojokerto landslide serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of Indonesia's rainy season. With ten dead, the government must act quickly to improve safety measures and reduce future risks.

Stay Informed about Indonesia's Natural Disasters

For the latest news and updates on Indonesia's natural disasters, follow:

• BNPB Indonesia (National Disaster Mitigation Agency)
• Indonesia Meteorological Agency

This disaster highlights the urgent need for better disaster preparedness in Indonesia's most vulnerable regions.

Our sympathies are with the victims and their families.

Translated from Indonesian by Volunteers of the Indonesian Red Cross Society.