One frustrating circumstance locals here are facing is having to wait for the outcome of the legal process of figuring out who is responsible. It wasn’t a tsunami or earthquake which destroyed these homes, so little government money is being promised to any of these victims. I read $11/day is given; but the guards I talked to say they have received no government help in 4 months. Hmm. I can’t explain that.

The justice system is being tested throughout Indonesia these days- and according to 3 security guards at the mud site (newly homeless victims themselves) they will have to wait 2 years or more to find out who will compensate them, and how much.

In the meantime, most people in the affected areas are sleeping on the floors of cousins, friends & neighbors.

20 businesses were shut down or destroyed as well, including the largest manufacturer of Black Label in Indonesia. Sorry guys!
In several places recently, the mud has dried and hardened to the point where people can walk on it.

The guards & drill site workers from Century drilling (Australian company) were friendly. Apparently a tri-country effort from Australia, America, & Indonesia is cooperating to attempt to reduce the pressure of the mud bubbling out & send the excess to the ocean.

They invited me to come see their homes. I wish I had more time! I hope to come back here later in the year & see how things are going.