January 16, 2025
The Srikandi Lestari Foundation, together with civil society organizations, participated in a reflection activity on saving the Batang Toru landscape organized by Green Justice Indonesia.
Dewi Hairani shared various disasters occurring around the Batang Toru landscape, including human-wildlife conflicts with the Sumatran Tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae), fatalities at the Batang Toru project site, tenure conflicts, and land disputes in the areas of Sibulan-Bulan Village, Raja Luat Sipirok, and Marancar.
The construction of the Batang Toru Hydropower Plant (PLTA) in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, has repeatedly resulted in fatalities. For instance, on July 2, 2023, a worker died after being struck by falling rocks and plunging into a ravine while driving near the tunnel construction site. Another worker sustained serious injuries to several parts of his body.
Dewi Hairani, Program Manager of the Srikandi Lestari Foundation, stated that the foundation could play a vital role in saving the Batang Toru ecosystem through several initiatives:
Data from the South Tapanuli Police and Basarda Medan indicate that at least 18 people have died at the project site. Specifically, 13 fatalities occurred, and two individuals were reported missing due to landslides at the Batang Toru hydropower plant construction site.
- Environmental Education and Awareness:
The foundation actively raises public awareness about the importance of preserving ecosystems. Through educational programs, they educate communities on the negative impacts of illegal activities, such as logging, and emphasize the importance of wildlife conservation. - Prevention of Illegal Logging:
By involving local communities, the Srikandi Lestari Foundation strives to prevent illegal logging. They conduct patrols and monitor forest areas to detect and stop illegal logging activities. - Ecosystem Restoration:
The foundation engages in ecosystem restoration projects, including tree planting and rehabilitating degraded areas. This helps restore natural habitats for wildlife and enhances biodiversity. - Disaster Mitigation:
By preserving forest sustainability, the foundation contributes to natural disaster mitigation. Healthy forests act as natural buffers that can reduce the risks of flooding and landslides. - Collaboration with Other Parties:
The Srikandi Lestari Foundation collaborates with various organizations and government entities to strengthen conservation efforts. Such collaboration is crucial for garnering broader support in protecting the Batang Toru ecosystem.
The Srikandi Lestari Foundation plays a crucial role in protecting and restoring the Batang Toru ecosystem. Through education, illegal logging prevention, restoration, disaster mitigation, and collaboration, the foundation significantly contributes to environmental sustainability in the region.