KOMPAS.com - The number of fatalities due to the series of disasters that hit Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra continues to increase.

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) Data Center (Pusdatin) reported that as of Tuesday (2/12/2025) evening, the total number of fatalities reached 744 people, while 551 people were still missing.

Based on BNPB data as of 23.30 WIB, Aceh was one of the worst affected areas with 218 deaths and 227 people missing.

In addition, there are still four districts in Aceh that are very difficult to reach by land, namely Bener Meriah, Central Aceh, Gayo Lues, and Aceh Tamiang.

In North Sumatra, the death toll has reached 301, with 163 people still missing. The most affected areas in the province include Central Tapanuli, South Tapanuli, Sibolga, and North Tapanuli.

Meanwhile, West Sumatra reported 225 deaths and 161 residents still missing. Agam Regency and Padang Panjang City were the areas with the most severe infrastructure damage, particularly due to flooding and landslides in the Mount Singgalang area.

How Does BNPB Distribute Aid to Affected Areas?

In a press conference on Tuesday (2/12/2025) evening, the Head of the BNPB Data, Information, and Communication Center, Abdul Muhari, explained that aid distribution was being carried out intensively through various channels.

In North Sumatra, logistics distribution is carried out by land, sea, and air to reach areas that have been cut off from access.

This effort is being made to ensure that the refugees' needs are met amidst difficult terrain conditions.

Meanwhile, in Aceh, weather modification operations (OMC) are continuing to be carried out to suppress rainfall that often hampers the search for victims and the opening of road access.

"OMC is helping speed up recovery operations, especially opening roads blocked by landslide material and flash flood mud," Abdul said at a BNPB press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

He added that four districts in Aceh are still inaccessible by land due to extensive damage. Therefore, helicopters are being deployed to expedite aid distribution.

"Previously, Central Aceh had not received any government logistics, but today, Caracal helicopters have been bringing in support since 10 a.m.," he said.

What is the focus of handling in West Sumatra?

In West Sumatra, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is focusing special attention on opening access in Agam Regency and Padang Panjang City. Damaged infrastructure in these two areas poses a major challenge to disaster management.

"For West Sumatra Province, the main focus for opening access is in Agam Regency and Padang Panjang City, which were affected by the landslide in the Mount Singgalang area. This is a focus and focus for restoration as quickly as possible," Abdul emphasized.

Restoring access is crucial to ensure optimal distribution of logistics and accelerated evacuation of victims.