Mount Merapi Hiking Ban Stays amid Explosive Eruption Risks

Merapi Trekking Restrictions Extended Despite Community Pressure

Tempatdonasi.com – Local authorities have decided to keep Mount Merapi’s hiking paths closed, even though residents living near the volcano have been urging for their reopening. The determination was reached during a collaborative session held at the Boyolali Regent’s Office on Thursday, July 16. Representatives from the regional administration, the Center for Research and Development of Geological Disaster Technology (BPPTKG), and the Mount Merapi National Park organization all concurred that the prohibition on trekking should continue because of the imminent danger of explosive volcanic activity.

Technical Assessment and Safety Zones

According to BPPTKG director Agus Budi Santoso, the area extending three kilometers from the volcano’s summit continues to face significant risk from sudden explosive events. He emphasized that the unpredictable character of such eruptions means that volcanic fragments can be propelled in every direction, which prevents officials from identifying precise safe areas.

The three-kilometer radius is off-limits due to the hazards of a potential explosive eruption. In the event of an explosive eruption, volcanic material can measure up to 220 centimeters, posing a lethal threat to anyone in the area.

Agus highlighted that present volcanic behavior at Merapi displays unmistakable warning signs that rule out trail reopening. One major factor is the frequent and ongoing pyroclastic flows, which are now being documented hundreds of times each day. He stated that the elevated likelihood of an explosive eruption capable of harming climbers means that hiking activities should not resume at this time.

The specialist further clarified that explosive blasts operate differently from conventional lava or debris movements, which typically travel along predictable routes down the mountain. A sudden explosion, on the other hand, possesses the ability to burst outward in numerous directions at once. He noted that while wind direction may influence the primary spread of material, the overall danger from an explosive event covers every sector of the volcano.

Dispelling Myths About the Northern Slope

Agus also addressed assertions that the northern side of Mount Merapi offers greater safety compared to other sections. Data collected by BPPTKG demonstrates that multiple past explosive events have directly impacted the northern region. He mentioned that over twenty explosive or phreatic eruptions have taken place since 2012, with several of these blasts aimed directly toward the north. Consequently, officials cannot automatically consider the northern flank as secure.

More than 20 explosive or phreatic eruptions have occurred since 2012. On several occasions, these blasts were directed straight toward the north. Therefore, we cannot simply assume that the northern flank is safe.

He referenced a specific occurrence in 2013 when an unexpected explosive eruption sent rocks raining down on the Pasar Bubrah location, situated merely one kilometer from Merapi’s peak. During that particular event, volcanic stones made it all the way to Pasar Bubrah, which falls inside the critical one-kilometer danger zone, according to Agus.

Community Concerns and Enforcement Measures

Heri Wibowo, who leads the Mount Merapi National Park, observed that the coordination gathering provided an essential platform for weighing local community needs alongside urgent safety requirements. He recognized that village residents have shared considerable worries regarding the extended closure of the walking routes. Heri mentioned that he had personally engaged with the local population, who raised various complaints and concerns during their discussions.

He confirmed that the paths will stay shut until BPPTKG modifies its technical evaluation of the volcanic situation. At the same time, government bodies are working on alternative approaches to support the regional economy while maintaining public safety standards.

In addition to investigating economic options, the Mount Merapi National Park administration plans to intensify efforts against unauthorized trekking. This move comes after numerous social media updates revealed people climbing Merapi despite the ongoing restriction. Patrol activities will be increased, and worn-out or absent warning markers will be restored along the trails. Heri added that security monitoring at checkpoint stations is being strengthened.

From late 2025 up to this July, we caught 67 individuals (illegal hikers). We have documented all their details.

Heri disclosed that officials have already imposed penalties on sixty-seven people discovered entering the restricted Merapi area between late 2025 and July 2026. All information about these individuals has been properly recorded for future reference and potential legal action.