Title: Bontang DPRD Urges Relocation of Crocodiles from Lok Tuan Village to Ensure Safety
Introduction:
The Bontang Regional People’s Representative Council (DPRD) has made an urgent request to the East Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Authority (BKSDA) to relocate crocodiles from Lok Tuan village. Concerns have been raised following a recent altercation between residents and the protected estuary crocodiles, resulting in injuries. The move aims to prevent further negative interactions and ensure the safety of the local community.
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The Bontang DPRD, on Friday (13/10/2023), expressed a request to the BKSDA to urgently relocate crocodiles from Lok Tuan village in North Bontang district. Faisal, a member of the Bontang DPRD, made the appeal after a recent conflict between the residents of RT 5 Kampung Selambai and the estuary crocodiles (scientifically known as Crocodylus porosus).
During the confrontation on Wednesday (11/10/2023), a 10-year-old boy suffered a laceration to his right shoulder, requiring 12 stitches. Faisal expressed concern over the recurrence of such negative interactions and emphasized the importance of relocation efforts to mitigate risks. These incidents mark the second conflict in Guntung, and immediate action is required to prevent future confrontations.
Faisal further stated, “In a relatively short time, there have been two incidents. First in Guntung, and two days ago in Lok Tuan,” as reported by the East Kalimantan Tribune.
Regarding the protection of estuary crocodiles, Faisal highlighted that they are safeguarded by the state. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Bontang Fire and Rescue Service (Disdamkartan) were notified. However, their attempts to capture the protected animals were hindered due to the presence of submerged houses. This necessitates the involvement of the BKSDA, which possesses the expertise, equipment, and infrastructure to carry out the relocation effectively.
In collaboration with Faizal, Lok Rural Municipality Chief Tuan Hadi Zumiyanto expressed their intent to coordinate with the East Kalimantan BKSDA in seeking assistance for relocating the crocodiles. Hadi also appealed to the local residents to refrain from engaging in water-related activities that could lead to further negative interactions with wildlife. Warning boards have been installed to prevent additional victims and ensure the community’s safety.
Estuary crocodiles, scientifically known as Crocodylus porosus, are protected by Minister of Environment and Forests Regulation No. P.106 of 2018. Furthermore, these animals are also safeguarded under Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Protection of Living Natural Resources and their Ecosystems.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Why did the Bontang DPRD request the relocation of crocodiles from Lok Tuan village?
A: The request was made to prevent negative interactions between the protected estuary crocodiles and the local community, as a recent altercation resulted in injuries.
Q: How many incidents of conflicts with crocodiles have occurred in Guntung?
A: There have been two incidents so far, one in Guntung and another two days ago in Lok Tuan, which prompted concerns about future altercations.
Q: Who was approached for assistance in relocating the crocodiles?
A: The Bontang Fire and Rescue Service (Disdamkartan) initially attempted to capture the crocodiles but faced difficulties due to submerged houses. Eventually, the request for help was directed to the East Kalimantan BKSDA.
Q: How are residents being warned about potential dangers?
A: Warning boards have been put up to inform residents about the risks and discourage engaging in water-related activities that may lead to negative interactions with wildlife.
Q: How are estuary crocodiles protected?
A: Estuary crocodiles are protected by Minister of Environment and Forests Regulation No. P.106 of 2018 and Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Protection of Living Natural Resources and their Ecosystems. These laws ensure the conservation and preservation of these species and their habitats.
