Power, Communications Recovery Continues in Flores

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Efforts to restore electricity and telecommunications networks in Flores following the 7.7‑magnitude earthquake are accelerating. As of August 17, 2026, most affected power networks are operational, and more than 90 percent of telecommunications services across the region have recovered.

Acting Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency’s (BNPB) Disaster Data and Communication Center, Berton SP Panjaitan, said repairs to electrical infrastructure and communication networks are progressing optimally.

“The National Support Post (Pospenas) reported that repairs to electrical infrastructure and communication networks are proceeding optimally. The Customer Service Implementation Units (UP3) for East Flores and West Flores have nearly achieved 100 percent restoration of power networks within their service areas. Substation transformers have fully recovered, while 98.3 percent of affected utility poles and distribution lines are back in operation,” Berton said in a statement on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, as cited by Infopublik.

According to the report, crews have reactivated 3,478 affected distribution substations, reaching a recovery rate of 99.45 percent. Out of the total customer base in the affected areas, 564,065 customers -- or 99.4 percent -- have had their electricity supply restored.

The East Flores UP3 serves Sikka Regency and surrounding areas, while the West Flores UP3 covers six regencies in western Flores: West Manggarai, Manggarai, East Manggarai, Ngada, Nagekeo, and Ende.

Restoration efforts also targeted telecommunications networks, which are vital for public communication and disaster response coordination.

Networks managed by state-owned telecommunications operator Telkomsel have recovered to nearly full capacity in several earthquake‑affected areas. Communication network recovery rates have surpassed 90 percent in West Manggarai, Nagekeo, Ngada, Sikka, Ende, and Manggarai.

Meanwhile, East Manggarai Regency still needs further attention, with a recovery rate of 76.3 percent and 14 sites still experiencing disruptions.

Accelerating the restoration of electricity and telecommunications networks is crucial for resuming community activities following the disaster. Electricity supports household needs and public services, while communication networks facilitate coordination and ensure access to information for both the public and field personnel.

Repairs to these two types of infrastructure are progressing alongside the restoration of other basic infrastructure, including road access.

At the same time, the command post, supported by Pospenas and other stakeholders, continues efforts to meet the basic needs of affected communities. These measures aim to accelerate community recovery and revive social and economic activities in the earthquake‑affected regions. ***