Banjarmasin Deploys 154 Medics for Virgo Transport 8 Survivors

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Medical care for the 22 survivors of the Virgo Transport 8 Motor Ship incident is proceeding smoothly in line with established health service standards. Passengers are being transferred from the vessel to a larger ship before being taken to port for medical treatment.

The Virgo Transport 8 Motor Ship accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, September 13, 2026, in the Java Sea while en route from Surabaya in East Java to Banjarmasin in South Kalimantan. According to the ship’s manifest, it was carrying a total of 243 people; hundreds have been rescued, while others remain the subject of ongoing Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.

The Banjarmasin City Health Agency has prepared 154 health personnel to attend to all survivors throughout the evacuation process. These workers, comprising doctors and paramedics, are assigned to four rotating shifts over several days at the command post.

“The handling of survivors to date is going well, and we are still awaiting updates on the condition of the 22 passengers. Upon arrival at the port, the victims will be taken directly to hospitals for examination and treatment,” said Banjarmasin Health Agency Head, Yanuar Diansyah, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026.

All health personnel have been stationed at the Trisakti Command Post to provide initial care to victims once evacuation is complete. Those requiring further treatment will be promptly referred to hospitals that have prepared the necessary medical staff and facilities.

“We have deployed 154 health workers, including doctors and paramedics, divided into four shifts. Each shift lasts approximately five to six hours, ensuring continuous care for victims over several days,” he said.

In addition to medical care, the Health Agency is providing psychological support for victims experiencing trauma following the incident. This accompaniment is conducted by community mental health specialists to monitor victims’ psychological conditions throughout their recovery process.

“For victims experiencing psychological trauma, accompaniment has been provided by community mental health specialists at the command post. We are ensuring that victims receive comprehensive health services, including psychological support during their recovery after the incident,” said Yanuar. (Annaila Azzahra-EN)