In the heart of Ngraho Village, a tranquil corner of Kedungtuban in Blora, Central Java, a sudden and unexpected event unfolded on the morning of Thursday, February 13, 2025. What began as a typical day for the residents soon turned into a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie when mud and gas erupted from one of the wells owned by Pertamina EP, creating a spectacle of nature rarely seen in these parts.
The Kerja Sama Operasi (KSO) Pertamina EP-KVELL Blora Energi swiftly sprang into action to address the mud and gas eruption, which caught everyone off guard. The incident, occurring in the Lapangan Kedinding mining area, raised concerns and prompted immediate response from all stakeholders involved. However, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, one reassuring fact emerged – there was no presence of hydrogen sulfide gas in the eruption, a dangerous element that could have posed serious risks to the environment and the community.
Dedi Rinaldi, the General Manager of KSO KVELL Blora Energi, took the helm in coordinating efforts with various parties, including local government officials, law enforcement, and environmental agencies. Together, they embarked on a mission to contain the flow and ensure the safety of all those affected. Dedi emphasized the importance of unity in addressing the situation, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defined their response to the crisis.
As the team of experts and officials worked tirelessly to manage the situation, the community bore witness to not just one, but two eruptions in close proximity to each other. Videos captured by residents circulated on social media, showcasing the sheer force of nature as the mud and gas gushed out, creating a spectacle that left many in awe and disbelief. The earth seemed to tremble under the weight of the eruption, as the soil around the wells shifted and gave way to the powerful forces at play.
The eruption, which originated near the Caluk-01 well, raised eyebrows and concerns among the locals. However, it was not the first time such an event had occurred in the area. The Caluk-01 well had been closed off since 2017 and fell under the management of KVELL Blora Energi through a cooperative operation agreement established in 2023. The team had been monitoring the well closely, but the sudden eruption caught them off guard, prompting swift action to contain the flow and prevent any further damage.
A new point of eruption emerged on Friday, adding to the complexity of the situation. Just 50 meters away from the initial site, another well in the Lapangan Kedinding mining area became the focal point of a fresh eruption, sending a mix of oil and water into the air. The team scrambled to assess the situation, taking quick measurements to ensure the safety of the surrounding areas and prevent any environmental contamination.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, Dedi and his team remained resolute in their mission to contain the eruptions and safeguard the community. Their dedication and quick response reflected a deep commitment to environmental protection and public safety, setting an example for future crisis management efforts in the region. As the sun set on Ngraho Village, the echoes of the eruption slowly faded, leaving behind a community united in the face of adversity, determined to overcome whatever challenges lay ahead.
