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Sumatra landslide survivors criticize deforestation

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Cinta Zanidya
December 7, 2025

Survivors are blaming more than just heavy rain for the catastrophic landslides. They’re blaming deforestation and the rapid expansion of monoculture plantations for turning their mountains into ticking time bombs.

Hundreds are dead and thousands homeless after landslides devastated Lobu Pining village in North Sumatra. Survivors blame deforestation and monoculture plantations like palm oil and eucalyptus for worsening the disaster. Authorities are investigating while clearing roads to deliver aid to isolated communities. Locals say tackling deforestation is key to preventing future catastrophes.

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