Inp.polri.go.id - Padang. The West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), the Ombudsman, and the administrations of Agam and Tanah Datar regencies in West Sumatra have permanently closed Mount Marapi for hiking to ensure public safety.
"This closure is based on a joint agreement," said the Head of BKSDA West Sumatr,, Lugi Hartanto, on Tuesday (28/1/2025), as quoted by antaranews.com.
Currently, Mount Marapi is classified as Level 2 (Alert), prohibiting any activity within a 3-kilometer radius of the eruption center. BKSDA supports the closure to prioritize safety. However, if the volcano's status drops to Level 1 (Normal), the policy may be reviewed.
Authorities will closely monitor the area to prevent illegal climbing. On 19 January 2025, officials found seven hikers and two locals attempting to climb the mountain despite the restrictions.
Ombudsman representative Adel Wahidi stressed that the closure is vital to warn the public about the dangers. He raised his concerns that people might mistakenly assume the mountain is safe if its activity levels appear to decrease.
(mg/inp/pr/nm)