PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The West Java Provincial Government (Pemprov) has implemented distance learning (PJJ) in areas with high volcanic ash distribution intensity. School principals are asked to immediately suspend school and outdoor activities if the volcanic ash distribution and air quality pose a potential health hazard.

This is stated in the Circular Letter of the Governor of West Java concerning Preparedness and Health Protection of the West Java Community Against the Impact of the Eruption and Distribution of Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau, issued on September 6, 2026.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi said that distance learning was implemented with the aim of protecting students and educational unit residents.

In addition to implementing distance learning (PJJ), preparedness for the impacts of volcanic ash distribution is being implemented by setting up posts and evacuation sites. The West Java Provincial Government is also activating community health centers, hospitals, health posts, and other healthcare facilities to respond to volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau.

"I instructed the Health Service to ensure the availability of health workers, ambulances, oxygen, pulse oximeters, medicines, masks/respirators, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at health facilities," said KDM, Dedi Mulyadi's nickname, Sunday (6/9/2026).

KDM also requested that the Health Office conduct daily surveillance for respiratory disorders, asthma/COPD, eye irritation, skin disorders, injuries and other health impacts, and report them through the applicable mechanisms.

More protection will be provided to vulnerable groups, including infants and children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, outdoor workers and people with chronic diseases.

Meanwhile, the Environmental Agency was instructed to coordinate with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the Regional Disaster Management Agency, and related agencies in monitoring air quality, especially PM2.5 and PM10, and to provide information on air conditions regularly.

The West Java Provincial Government will also maintain the cleanliness of public facilities and roads by properly cleaning up the ash using methods that will prevent the ash from re-flying.

As long as volcanic ash is detected in West Java, the West Java Provincial Government will increase efforts to maintain traffic safety.

"I have ordered all heads of regional government agencies and related parties to increase preparedness, provide information based on official sources, and immediately report any increase in health cases, service disruptions, logistical limitations, and support needs to the management/response posts," said KDM.

do not panic

For the public, KDM urges everyone to remain calm and not panic, but to always be alert and pay attention to environmental conditions.

"Follow official government information and directions and don't be easily influenced by information whose truth cannot be confirmed," said KDM.

He also appealed to the public to reduce outdoor activities and to stay indoors as much as possible if there is no urgent need, especially in areas with high intensity of volcanic ash distribution.

Use a mask, prioritizing a KN95 mask or any available mask that covers your nose and mouth properly.

Additionally, wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from exposure to volcanic ash particles. If exposed to volcanic ash, seek medical attention immediately.

To clean the house, public facilities
and the surrounding environment from volcanic ash, KDM recommends wetting the volcanic ash first to prevent the ash from flying back and being inhaled.

"Immediately go to the nearest health care facility if you experience respiratory problems, shortness of breath, chest pain, eye problems or irritation, skin problems, or other serious symptoms after exposure to volcanic ash," said KDM.

Additionally, cover and protect water and food sources from exposure to volcanic ash.

WEST JAVA PUBLIC RELATIONS
Head of the Communication and Information Service of West Java Province
Adi Komar