LEBAK, TintaKitaNews.com – The iconic natural tourist destination known as “Negeri di Atas Awan” (Country Above the Clouds) in Citorek District, Lebak Regency, Banten, is facing severe destruction due to large-scale, unregulated illegal gold mining operations. The damage inflicted not only ruins the natural beauty of the area but also disrupts the ecological balance and poses imminent disaster risks to surrounding communities.
Agus Suryaman, a public policy observer, stated that this site is a rare natural asset and a source of pride for the region and the nation, yet it is suffering irreversible damage. “Mining activities are carried out in complete violation of all environmental protection regulations. The land has been severely degraded, water sources have become contaminated and unfit for use, and biodiversity is on the brink of extinction,” he said in a written statement on Tuesday (12/05/2026).
The destruction also brings the risk of natural disasters in the near future. Uncontrolled mining methods increase the likelihood of land subsidence, landslides, and flash floods that threaten public safety. Furthermore, damage to water management systems will jeopardize the long-term availability of clean water, a fundamental need for local communities.
Legally, these activities clearly violate various laws governing natural resource management and the protection of protected areas. Economically, meanwhile, the region’s potential to generate revenue through sustainable tourism is at risk of being completely lost.
“As a leading tourist destination, the long-term and sustainable income from this sector is far greater than the short-term profits from illegal mining. We are sacrificing the region’s future income source for illicit gains,” Agus emphasized.
He called for firm and immediate action from all relevant authorities. Comprehensive and fair enforcement measures must be taken against all parties involved, from direct operators to those who facilitate these illegal activities. The government is also urged to develop structured environmental restoration plans and provide viable alternative livelihoods for local residents, ensuring they are not dependent on harmful activities.
Earlier, environmental activist M. Yusuf Ependi, SH, expressed similar concerns. According to him, the impact of damage caused by illegal mining is already being felt by the community. In addition to altering land contours and clearing protected forest areas, operators use hazardous chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, which are discharged directly into the environment without proper waste management.
“These toxic substances contaminate river systems that serve as sources of drinking water and daily needs for residents. The stability of the soil has been compromised, significantly increasing the risk of landslides during periods of heavy rainfall. Contaminated river water is no longer usable and poses health risks, while agricultural land has been severely damaged, leading to drastic declines in crop yields,” he explained.
Yusuf stressed that this issue is not merely an economic matter but a threat to lives. “If left unchecked, flash floods and landslides are inevitable,” he stated firmly.
Although the local government and law enforcement agencies have carried out multiple crackdowns and awareness campaigns, illegal mining operations remain difficult to eliminate. Economic factors are the primary reason for this persistence, as many local residents rely on income derived from these traditional mining activities.
Therefore, addressing this issue requires more than just legal measures. The government is requested to provide sustainable economic solutions as alternative livelihood options, such as the development of eco-tourism, organic farming, and environment-friendly businesses based on local natural resources.
“Citorek possesses extraordinary natural beauty that can be developed into a much larger and long-lasting source of income without harming the environment. The destruction seen here is a warning of broader ecological threats facing the entire Lebak Regency if strict supervision and concrete actions are not taken,” he concluded.
At the time of publication, media representatives were still attempting to confirm details with relevant parties to obtain further information.
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