Flash floods that struck residential areas in Pidie Jaya Regency, Aceh, disrupted public access and left large amounts of debris across the affected areas.
In response, the Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) deployed four trained elephants to support cleanup operations in areas inaccessible to heavy machinery.
According to BKSDA, the decision was taken to accelerate the removal of wooden debris and other large materials blocking pathways and homes. The elephants: Abu, Mido, Ajis, and Noni, are accompanied and directed by their mahouts at the site.
The operation is focused on Meunasah Bie Village, Meurah Dua District. Heavy equipment has not yet reached parts of the area due to obstructions left by the flash floods, making alternative methods necessary.
“We brought four trained elephants, all from the Saree Elephant Training Centre (PLG),” said Hadi Sofyan, Head of the Sigli Natural Resources Conservation Agency (KSDA) in Aceh, on Monday, 8 December 2025, as quoted from Kompas.com.
He stated that the team is prioritising locations where debris accumulation prevents machinery or personnel from entering.
“We are targeting the cleanup at locations affected by flash floods in Meureudu and Meurah Dua Districts, Pidie Jaya Regency,” he said.
@kompascomBalai Konservasi Sumber Daya Alam (BKSDA) Aceh mengerahkan empat ekor gajah untuk membantu membersihkan puing-puing kayu yang menumpuk di permukiman warga Kabupaten Pidie Jaya, Aceh, usai banjir bandang menghantam wilayah tersebut. “Empat ekor gajah jinak tersebut melakukan pembersihan puing kayu atau lainnya pasca bencana, sasarannya adalah lokasi yang tidak bisa dilewati alat berat,” ujar Kepala KSDA Wilayah Sigli Aceh Hadi Sofyan, Senin (8/12/2025). Para mahot (pawang gajah) membawa empat gajah membersihkan puing di permukiman penduduk Gampong Meunasah Bie, Kecamatan Meurah Dua. Penulis: Wahyu Wachid Anshory Kreatif: Jessica Meisya Kurnia Produser: Reza Kurnia Darmawan ~J #Gajah #Peristiwa #Voice
Extended Support of The Elephants
Hadi explained that the elephants had previous experience in emergency disaster operations. All four were previously deployed during the post-tsunami response in Aceh in 2004.
“Based on previous experience, including during the tsunami in Aceh, the presence of elephants is very helpful in clearing debris,” he said.
The animals’ tasks include removing large logs, opening access routes between villages, and assisting teams in reaching homes still isolated by flood remains.
Hadi also stated that the elephants could be used in the evacuation process if victims are located in obstructed areas. They may also be used to transport essential supplies to affected communities.
“We will be on duty here for seven days, ending on 14 December 2025,” he said.
For now, the response is centred in Pidie Jaya. Hadi noted that access to other flood-affected areas remains limited and requires further assessment.
“So far, we have not reached other areas, because surveys are still needed, and access to other districts is still unreachable. In the future, if needed, we are ready to help,” he explained.
Pidie Jaya Police Chief AKBP Ahmad Faisal Pasaribu confirmed that the operation is part of the coordinated emergency response. He added that the elephants’ presence has also had a positive effect on residents, particularly children.
“Besides helping carry materials, the elephants create a cheerful atmosphere and reduce tension,” he said.
Online reaction to the deployment has been notable. Many social media users expressed their appreciation for the involvement of the endangered Sumatran elephants.
Comments highlighted public concern regarding elephant habitat loss, while also acknowledging their current role in supporting human communities affected by the disaster.
Messages of support and wishes for the animals’ safety were widely shared.
