Residents Protest Against Mining Activities
Wednesday, 02 November, 2011 | 17:27 WIB

TEMPO Interactive, Medan, North Sumatra:Hundreds of residents in Tanah Karo, North Sumatra, on Tuesday held a protest in front of the Karo Regional Representatives Council (DPRD). They demanded the government close down the Dolomite mine in the Tidanderkat and Kutabuluh districts. The residents said the area was a forested region. “It is clearly stated in the Forestry Ministry’s directive No. 44,” said Julianis Sembiring, one of the residents.

Julianis added that the residents objected to the mine because only some elements were permitted. Sucipto, executive officer for the head of the Forestry Board, said that all mining activities had been shut down. Sucipto admitted the discrepancy stated in the directive No. 44. “In the field, the land belongs to the people, not part of the 44 registry,” Sucipto added on Tuesday.

SOETANA MONANG HASIBUAN