Government Rushes Vital Feed and Medical Aid to Livestock Hit by Semeru Eruption

Government teams are moving swiftly to protect livestock in Lumajang, East Java, after Mount Semeru’s latest eruption sent hot clouds cascading down its slopes. The Ministry of Agriculture has begun delivering feed, vitamins, and medical supplies to help farmers keep their animals healthy as ash and debris continue to affect grazing areas.

Source: aljazeera

Director of Veterinary Health, I Ketut Wirata, said 14 tons of feed—ranging from fresh forage to silage and complete rations—are already being distributed through the ministry’s technical units. Deliveries will continue from late November into early December, supported by the Singosari Artificial Insemination Center, the Baturraden Center for Superior Livestock and Forage Seeds, and the Cipelang Animal Embryo Center.

Support is not limited to feed alone. Teams from the Directorate of Animal Health, the Wates Veterinary Center, and the Veterinary Pharmaceutical Center are supplying medicines, vitamins, disinfectants, and protective gear for officers working in the disaster zone. Authorities stress that animal welfare guidelines are being followed, with safety protocols in place to protect field personnel as they work near the affected areas.

Endra Novianto, Head of Animal Health at the Lumajang Food Resilience and Agriculture Office, highlighted the importance of strong coordination across agencies and sectors to speed up livestock recovery. He noted that safeguarding animals is essential not only for farmers’ livelihoods but also for maintaining food security during the ongoing emergency.

Mount Semeru, which rises 3,676 meters above sea level, erupted on November 19, sending pyroclastic flows up to seven kilometers from its peak. “The flow was still moving at the time of the report, and volcanic activity remained high,” said Mukdas Sofian from the Semeru observation post.

The government’s rapid response aims to stabilize livestock conditions, restore animal health, and ensure communities can recover as volcanic activity continues