PLN Nusantara Power Deploys Heroic Rescue Efforts to Save Flood-Trapped Communities in North Sumatra and Aceh
Jakarta, 28 November 2025 — Amid devastating floods and landslides that have struck North Sumatra and Aceh over the past week, PT PLN Nusantara Power (PLN NP) demonstrated extraordinary resilience and rapid response. Facing severed access routes, disrupted communications, and extreme weather conditions, PLN NP personnel pressed forward through floodwaters and landslide debris to rescue stranded residents while safeguarding critical energy infrastructure in the affected areas.
On Thursday night (27 November), in an emotionally charged send-off, a special PLN NP emergency team was deployed to Central Tapanuli and surrounding disaster areas. The team was equipped with essential resources, including satellite internet modules to restore communication in isolated zones, emergency generators, network repair tools, logistics supplies, and evacuation equipment.
“May you be granted health, safety, and protection by God,” said Charles Mangasi Tambunan, Assistant Manager of Operations and Maintenance at PLN NP UP Pandan, during the solemn deployment ceremony—reflecting the significant risks faced by the volunteers.
Trekking Through Landslides to Rescue Trapped Residents
The first heroic effort began on 26 November 2025, when an advance response team was dispatched from Tarutung to Sibolga. At that time, all communication with employees and residents in the disaster zone had been completely cut off. Roads leading to Sibolga were severely blocked by landslides and flooding, rendering vehicles unable to pass.
Without hesitation, the emergency response team continued their journey on foot, navigating mud, debris, and unstable terrain. What would normally be a two-hour drive turned into a grueling, high-risk expedition demanding endurance, courage, and determination.
Through limited satellite communication, the team reported dire conditions: approximately 250 households were trapped along the Tarutung–Sibolga corridor, with destroyed homes, depleted supplies, widespread power outages, and residents desperately awaiting assistance.
PLN Nusantara Power Units Mobilize in Solidarity, Prioritizing Humanity
PLN NP swiftly reinforced the response by deploying additional teams from UP Belawan, UMRO UPHK Medan, and PLTA Renun. These teams brought comprehensive equipment, including rubber boats, medical supplies, generators, fuel, communication devices, and emergency tents. Ambulances and operational vehicles were placed on standby to support evacuation efforts.
At UP Belawan, the situation grew increasingly urgent as continuous rainfall caused floodwaters to rise to waist height inside employees’ homes. Acting decisively, unit management immediately evacuated employees’ families to the UP Belawan office, which served as a safer shelter.
Other PLN NP facilities, including UMRO Paya Pasir and ULPLTG Gelugur, were also affected by flooding. Despite these challenges, all PLN NP personnel remained steadfast in prioritizing the safety of colleagues and surrounding communities.
President Director of PLN Nusantara Power, Ruly Firmansyah, expressed deep appreciation for the courage and dedication demonstrated by teams in the field.
“In the midst of disaster and severely limited access, PLN Nusantara Power personnel have shown heroic actions—not only saving lives, but also safeguarding the energy lifeline for communities. Their sacrifice, resilience, and bravery reflect the true spirit of PLN NP. We are not merely energy operators; we are one family that stands together in times of crisis. They are the true energy heroes,” said Ruly.
Ruly further affirmed that PLN Nusantara Power will continue to mobilize all available resources to support disaster response efforts, ensure the safety of employees and local communities, and accelerate the restoration of electricity in affected areas. (*)
Media Contact
Harry Purnomo
Vice President Corporate Communication & CSR
PT PLN Nusantara Power
Tel. +62 31 8283180
About PT PLN Nusantara Power
PT PLN Nusantara Power is a subholding of PT PLN (Persero) dedicated to serving the Indonesian nation while supporting national economic growth by providing high-quality, reliable, and environmentally friendly electricity. The company operates power plants across Indonesia with a total installed capacity of 18,573 MW.
With a vision to become a Leading and Trusted Power Generation Company for Sustainable Energy in Indonesia and the Global Market, PLN Nusantara Power is committed to achieving Net Zero Emission through the development of more than 6.3 GW of renewable energy and by pioneering green power generation nationwide. The company continuously innovates while upholding strong Good Corporate Governance (GCG) principles.