InfoSAWIT, CENTRAL MAMUJU — A suspected liquefaction incident occurred in Saloadak Village, Tobadak District, Central Mamuju Regency, West Sulawesi, on Friday (Nov 1), causing a piece of heavy machinery involved in a road repair project to sink into the suddenly softened ground, complicating evacuation efforts.

Prior to the event, road repair workers noticed unusual ground movement in the area, flanked by palm oil plantations. The heavy machinery operator, still in the cabin, attempted to rescue the trapped equipment but was unsuccessful. As the situation worsened, the operator was forced to abandon the machinery and escape.

The Central Mamuju Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) immediately deployed teams to assess the situation. Sigit Dwihastono, Head of Central Mamuju BPBD, stated that the liquefaction is likely triggered by unstable soil conditions exacerbated by frequent flooding in the surrounding palm oil plantations.

“This area often experiences flooding, particularly in the Rawa Makmur settlement and nearby palm plantations. Additionally, the ground here is quite unstable, mostly consisting of peat soil, which easily changes consistency when exposed to large amounts of water,” Sigit explained, as quoted by InfoSAWIT from TV One on Tuesday (Nov 5, 2024).

Liquefaction is a phenomenon where soil loses its strength due to repeated loading, such as from earthquakes, causing soil particles to separate and the ground to become semi-liquid. It frequently occurs in areas with a shallow water table and is common in earthquake-prone regions.

According to analysis by the Geological Agency, West Sulawesi, especially Central Mamuju Regency, is highly susceptible to ground movement and the impacts of earthquakes, elevating the risk of liquefaction, especially in areas with peat or loose soil.

BPBD Central Mamuju has urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant to potential ground movement that could result in liquefaction, particularly during floods or earthquakes. (T2)