Jakarta. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) is employing weather modification technology to preemptively address flooding concerns during the 2024 Eid al-Fitr exodus.

"We are gearing up weather modification technology," stated BMKG Chief Dwikorita Karnawati following a ministerial and agency meeting in Jakarta on Monday.

Technically, weather modification technology induces clouds to release rain by dispersing Sodium Chloride (NaCl) or salt into cloud nuclei via aircraft.

Each Eid holiday, Indonesians traditionally journey back to their hometowns to reunite with family and loved ones. According to the Transportation Ministry, an estimated 193.6 million individuals are projected to travel this year, constituting 71.7 percent of the nation’s total population. This year's Eid exodus is anticipated to surpass last year's numbers by around 50 percent.

Dwikorita stressed that BMKG is proactively implementing measures to mitigate flood risks. Indonesia has encountered severe weather patterns and hydro-meteorological disasters in recent months.

She urged holiday travelers to remain updated on flood alerts through BMKG and the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). By staying informed, holiday travelers can steer clear of flood-prone areas and other potential natural calamities.

"We urge holiday travelers to stay tuned to BMKG and BNPB updates. Upon detection of any issues, we will collaborate with BNPB, the Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Ministry, and Regional Disaster Management Agencies (BPBD) to prevent flooding," Dwikorita elaborated.

BMKG forecasts indicate that extreme weather conditions, such as moderate to heavy rainfall, are expected to persist until Eid, which is expected to occur on April 10. These conditions increase the risk of hydro-meteorological disasters in diverse regions.

Recently, BMKG Chief Dwikorita toured flood-affected regions in Semarang and its vicinity, specifically in Jepara and Demak districts.

Similarly, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo announced that the police have devised alternative routes for public use during the 2024 Eid exodus.

"Moderate to heavy rainfall is possible during the holiday exodus, or even light to heavy rain. Hence, we have arranged alternative routes. We have identified 116 points and prepared 112 alternative routes. We will disseminate this information to raise public awareness of flood-prone areas," Listyo elucidated.

The National Police will deploy 76,192 personnel to oversee the movement of millions of travelers during the 2024 Eid al-Fitr homecoming. Additionally, 68,969 personnel from other agencies will collaborate in this endeavor.

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