Kapolda North Sumatera, Irjen Pol Whisnu Hermawan Februanto, and Pangdam I/BB, Mayjen TNI Rio Firdianto, directly distribute rice to disaster-affected residents in Central Tapanuli.

progresifjaya.co.id, CENTRAL TAPANULI – Disaster management in the Central Tapanuli region continues to be a top priority for state officials. On Sunday (30/11), Kapolda North Sumatera, Irjen Pol Whisnu Hermawan Februanto, along with the Pangdam I/BB, Mayjen TNI Rio Firdianto, visited the Bulog Pandan warehouse in Central Tapanuli Regency (Tapteng), to distribute rice aid to residents affected by floods and landslides.

The presence of the two highest-ranking TNI and Polri leaders in North Sumatera is strong evidence of the state’s presence among the community during this difficult situation. Hundreds of sacks of rice were distributed directly to residents waiting at the distribution post, including residents from areas most severely damaged by the disaster.

On this occasion, Kapolda Whisnu emphasized that the assistance provided was not merely logistical distribution, but also a manifestation of the state’s commitment to ensuring that all residents receive support without exception.

“Of course, all of this will be given to the community, and aid will be delivered continuously by air, land, and sea,” said Kapolda Whisnu.

He added, that the distribution of these logistics will continue to adapt to the conditions, as access remains very limited in many areas.

“This is a form of support for the community as part of the state’s presence,” he continued.

He further emphasized, that the synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is key to ensuring the smooth and orderly distribution of aid, ensuring it reaches the affected residents.

“We, the TNI and Polri, together with the North Sumatera Regional Government, are helping to organize the distribution properly to ensure it runs smoothly. And of course, this is also a good step for the TNI and Polri to provide the best for the community,” explained Kapolda Whisnu.

The Pangdam I/BB, Mayjen TNI Rio Firdianto also ensured that the deployed TNI soldiers were truly helpful, providing security, transportation, and direct distribution to residents’ homes in areas that are still difficult to reach.

The distribution of rice from Bulog Pandan was met with emotion by the people of Tapteng. They expressed their gratitude for the timely arrival of food aid, as their supplies were dwindling due to the continued disruption to land access. The presence of the Kapolda and the Pangdam also boosted their spirits and encouraged them to persevere.

The TNI and the Polri have also ensured that the basic needs of the people of Tapteng and other affected areas will continue to be met until conditions recover. (Bembo)