On December 10, Kencana Energy Tbk (KEEN) provided an update on the ongoing recovery efforts for the Pakkat Hydropower Plant, which was affected by a landslide. When asked about the estimated timeline for restoring Pakkat’s generation capacity to normal levels, KEEN was unable to provide a definitive answer.
The recovery of the Pakkat Hydropower Plant is expected to take a considerable amount of time. The company is even considering several contingency options, including relocating part of the production process, rerouting distribution, or identifying alternative industrial zones.
How Severe Is the Impact of the Landslide on the Pakkat Hydropower Plant?
Geographically, the Pakkat Hydropower Plant is located in Pakkat District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency, North Sumatra Province. Locals often refer to it as the Sipulak Hydropower Plant because it is situated near the Sipulak Waterfall.
The landslide affecting the Pakkat Hydropower Plant occurred as part of a series of flash floods and landslides that struck many areas in North Sumatra, triggered by heavy rainfall. WALHI North Sumatra added that the main driver of the disaster is upstream ecosystem degradation, driven by the activities of a small number of companies that are believed to have massively exploited areas that should have been protected.
As seen in several photos below, the landslide caused significant damage, blocking the river flow and forming a natural dam. The images also show that parts of the hydropower plant’s structures remain visible and appear unaffected, while some transmission tower facilities were toppled.
Humbahas Police Chief AKBP Arthur Sameputty stated that at least 10 landslides occurred. The landslide points are located between the hydropower plant’s dam and the Power House (PH). Arthur also urged residents in Adam Dewi District and Barus District to remain vigilant, as the landslide debris blocking the river could give way at any time. If that happens, water may surge rapidly and pose danger to communities living and carrying out activities along the riverbanks.
