Indonesia's Bandung Prepares Mitigation as Volcanic Ash Spreads

RRI.CO.ID, Bandung - The Bandung Government is preparing contigency plans after volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau reached Bandung. The measure followed the temporary closure of Husein Sastranegara International Airport on Sunday, 6 September 2026.

Mayor of Bandung Muhammad Farhan said the government was preparing mitigation steps if volcanic ash continued reaching the city. The Indonesian Government is coordinating with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Air Navigation Indonesia (AirNav), and Indonesia-China High-Speed Railways (KCIC).

Farhan said the volcanic ash could affect public activities and transportation services in Bandung. He stressed the need for accurate information so residents can respond appropriately to changing conditions.

Farhan also highlighted the risks faced by students who use motorcycles to travel to and from school every day. He said volcanic ash exposure could make motorcycle use dangerous for students and other road users.

“Including conveying information to children, especially those who go to school using motorized vehicles, particularly motorcycles. That is actually dangerous,” Farhan said.

Farhan said the Bandung Government would await input from relevant agencies before issuing further public advisories. The potential guidelines could include guidance on mask use and other precautions for residents.

Meanwhile, Corporate Secretary Group Head of PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia Arie Ahsanurrohim said Husein Sastranegara Airport temporarily stopped flight operations. The airport suspended flights from 12:07 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Western Indonesia Time (WIB).

“BDO stopped flight activities from 12:07 to 16:00 WIB,” Arie said.

Arie said the suspension followed monitoring that showed volcanic ash had entered the Bandung area. He added that authorities would continue monitoring the ash distribution before deciding when flight operations could resume.

“Already exposed to volcanic ash,” Arie added.

The Bandung Government is also continuing mitigation efforts against other disaster threats, including potential earthquakes. The measures are intended to strengthen public preparedness and ensure residents receive timely information during emergencies.