The search and rescue operation for the March 8 trash landslide at TPST Bantargebang in Bekasi has concluded, with all 13 victims located: six survivors and seven fatalities. Officials urge an end to open dumping amid a national waste crisis.
Following the trash pile collapse at the Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST) Bantargebang in Bekasi, West Java, on March 8, 2026—triggered by heavy rain and burying 13 people—the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) closed operations at 00:00 WIB on March 10 after locating the final victim.
The six survivors are Budiman, Johan, Safifudin, Slamet, Ato, and Dofir. The seven deceased include Enda Widayanti (25, female, shop owner), Sumine (60, female, shop owner), Dedi Sutrisno (male, truck driver), Irwan Supriatin (male, truck driver), Jussova Situmorang (38, female), Hardianto (male), and Riki Supriadi (40, male, found at 23:30 WIB on March 9).
Basarnas deployed heavy equipment, K9 dogs, and thermal drones. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq called it a 'loud alarm' against open dumping, violating Law No. 18/2008, noting the site's 80 million tons of waste over 37 years. A ministry investigation and law enforcement are underway.
MPR Deputy Chairman Eddy Soeparno highlighted Indonesia's waste crisis—56 million tons produced yearly, only 40% managed effectively—with the pile reaching 16-17 stories high. He backed Presidential Regulation No. 109/2025 on waste-to-energy plants, stressing waste sorting and temporary storage.
