Jakarta. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia recently checked on the power generation recovery works in the disaster-hit Aceh.

The state utility firm PLN reported that 12 high-voltage transmission lines had collapsed during the flash floods and landslides that occurred in late November. Five 150-kilovolt towers from Bireuen to Arun had also collapsed. These towers play a central role in connecting power access from the Arun and Nagan Raya power plants to several areas in Aceh. 

"The floods have affected many areas, and some remain isolated, not to mention the collapsed electricity infrastructure. This is very concerning. We are currently focusing on repairing them as quickly as possible," Bahlil was quoted as saying in a press statement.

Bahlil admitted that the recovery process in Aceh was facing some major challenges, particularly in terms of distributing repair materials and mobilizing personnel. The disaster has cut off transportation access to the high-voltage power tower locations, making them only accessible by helicopters. 

Bahlil said that the government would work alongside PLN and the state oil company Pertamina to ensure oil supplies and speed up the power recovery.

"I appreciate PLN's hard work. They've done an extraordinary job. Now it's time for us to work for the planet. I know the terrain isn't easy, but I witnessed firsthand how difficult the terrain was from the helicopter, but this is a calling for us to serve the country and take care of the people," Bahlil said.

PLN President Director Darmawan Prasodjo said that the company had been working 24/7 to restore power in Aceh. 

"We are deploying all our resources and going all out to restore the power system as ordered by President Prabowo Subianto. With the support of the government, the military and police forces as well as the community, we are optimistic that we can quickly fully restore the power system," Darmawan said.

Bahlil also went to Blang Panjo village to distribute humanitarian aid. Basic food packages consisting of 700 kilograms (kg) of rice, 700 kg of sugar, and 1,400 liters of cooking oil, were distributed to affected communities in the area.

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