The regional and central governments have closed and regulated mining sites several times, but illegal mining activities continue because the area's gold potential is considered very promising.
Despite this, Mount Botak remains a symbol of the "gold rush" in Eastern Indonesia, reflecting the challenges of managing abundant natural resources that are not always accompanied by proper oversight and management.
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3. Mount Tumpang Pitu, Banyuwangi
Mount Tumpang Pitu is a small mountain (450 meters above sea level) rich in gold, silver, and copper deposits located in Banyuwangi Regency, East Java.
Corporate mining activities in this area began in 1995, when a mining permit was granted to PT Hakman Metalindo for mining on the mountain.
The subsequent exploration process has caused forest areas to dry out and damaged the marine ecosystem due to poorly managed waste disposal.
The area explored by the company includes protected forests, productive agricultural land, and residential areas, which has led to local residents speaking out.
Mineral extraction not only threatens daily livelihoods but also makes the region more vulnerable to natural disasters.
Mount Tumpang Pitu acts as a protective barrier against tsunamis, which are common in the region, the last of which struck in 1994.
Furthermore, the mountain acts as a breakwater for the southwest winds, which are particularly strong during certain months of the year, thus reducing the risk of typhoons.
Mining activities have caused massive mudflows, impacting communities at the foot of the mountain and coastal areas.
Furthermore, gold extraction requires a significant amount of water, and the water required for the process comes from the Kaliban and Kali Gonggo rivers, which are sources of water for irrigation and other purposes.
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4. Mount Pongkor, Bogor
Since gold was discovered in 1988, Pongkor was officially mined in 1994 by the Gold Mining Business Unit (UBP).