Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has warned on Friday (16/1/2026) of growing sinkhole risks across limestone regions, urging early detection to prevent sudden ground collapse amid recurring incidents in karst areas nationwide.

“Rainwater dissolves limestone over time, creating underground cavities that can suddenly collapse,” said Adrin Tohari, the Head of BRIN’s Geological Disaster Research Center, as quoted by antaranews.com.

He explained that sinkholes occur when acidic rainwater seeps underground, enlarging fractures in limestone layers until the surface can no longer bear weight. The threat is most pronounced in karst landscapes such as Gunung Kidul, Pacitan, and Maros, where thick limestone formations are common.

Adrin noted that sinkholes are difficult to detect visually because the process develops slowly beneath the surface. However, he said geophysical surveys, including ground-penetrating radar and electrical resistivitym can help identify hidden cavities early, supporting mitigation and safer land-use planning.

(mg/inp/pr/rs)