‘It’s A Lie’: Villagers In Aceh Tamiang Debunk Claims of Government Neglect

Residents at the heart of the disaster zone say aid is reaching isolated areas via alternative routes, contradicting viral reports of a total blockade.

Local residents in Aceh Tamiang.

ACEH TAMIANG — Local residents in Aceh Tamiang have hit back at viral claims that several villages have been left to fend for themselves following catastrophic floods and landslides. Contrary to reports suggesting a total lack of government intervention, those on the ground say that essential supplies and heavy machinery are moving steadily into the affected areas.

The controversy began when a video circulated online claiming that communities across a collapsed bridge had been "forgotten" by the state into the third week of the disaster. However, locals tell a different story.

‘The aid is flowing’

Jusman, a resident of Tanjung Gelumpang, dismissed the viral narrative as misinformation. He confirmed that both government aid and volunteer supplies had arrived well before the video gained traction.

"The person who made that video was looking from the edge of the broken bridge. They didn't realise that aid has been coming in via Pulau Tiga," Jusman said on Friday.

He explained that while the main bridge is out of commission, an alternative route through Pulau Tiga remains open and has become the primary artery for logistics. "Military (TNI) heavy machinery is already on-site for road clearing. Thank God, as of now, food staples and everything else have arrived," he added.

Sufficient supplies

His account was echoed by Amel, a resident of Aras Sembilan, who described the current supply of food and clothing as "adequate" for the village’s needs. "Help arrived within days of the flooding. We have enough to get by for now," she said.

In the village of Lubuk Sidup, the logistics chain appears to be well-organised. Anwar MJ explained that his village has been transformed into a transit hub. Using BNPB (National Disaster Management Agency) tents as temporary warehouses, supplies are being shuttled further inland to more remote spots like Aras Sembilan.

Anwar also noted that clean water is being delivered via tankers every two days, addressing one of the most critical needs in the wake of the floods.

A shift to recovery

While the immediate "emergency phase" seems to be under control, residents are now looking toward the long-term challenge of rebuilding.

Anwar pointed out that while food is available, shelter is becoming a pressing issue. "For the recovery stage, we desperately need tarpaulins to build temporary shelters, as many homes have been completely lost," he said.

As the floodwaters recede, the priority for these communities is shifting from survival to reconstruction, with local leaders calling for generators, boreholes for clean water, and building materials to help the region get back on its feet.