Representative photo
In the event of rough sea conditions that prevents boats and vessels from sailing, Kepulauan Seribu (the Thousand Islands) off the coast of North Jakarta are practically cut off from the rest of civilization. After all, there are currently no facilities that support air travel to and from the islands.
But that may soon change. The Jakarta provincial government plans on buying a helicopter and building a helipad in Pulau Panjang, Kepulauan Seribu. The helicopter would mainly be used to transport medical professionals to serve the people of Kepulauan Seribu.
“We want to buy a helicopter, we’re discussing it at the executive meeting,” Ahok said at City Hall yesterday, as quoted by Tempo.
Ahok said the people of Kepulauan Seribu currently find it difficult to access other islands or the mainland in order to get medical treatment. Transportation by sea is even more difficult and dangerous in unfriendly weather.
Air Force personnel would operate the helicopter.
The provincial government is currently discussing possibilities of improving medical services in Kepulauan Seribu with the City Council.
