This cave keeps a neat history of the tsunami that ever happened in Aceh. Photo: Junaidi Hanafiah / Mongabay Indonesia
The devastating tsunami that struck Aceh on December 26, 2004 will continue to be remembered. In addition to the many casualties that fall, various units of infrastructure until the settlement of the population was flattened to the ground.
Until now, research continues to uncover how natural phenomena that occur. Including, looking for evidence, whether Aceh had ever been tsunami before tsunami.
Researchers from Syiah Kuala University of Aceh, try to reveal the evidence. Research is done by tracing the cave located in District Lhoong, Aceh Besar District, Aceh. From the results of excavation of sediments in the cave is known, the tsunami had ever hit Aceh in 7,400 years ago.
"A study by Syiah Kuala University with Nanyang Technological University (NTU, Singapore), is trying to identify layers of sand deposited by past tsunamis in the cave. The layers of tsunami sand, neatly crossed with guano deposits, "said geologist Unsyiah, Nazli Ismail, last weekend.
Researchers from the Syiah Kuala University of Aceh are trying to reveal evidence that the tsunami occurred in Aceh some 7,400 years ago. Top and bottom photos: Junaidi Hanafiah / Mongabay Indonesia
Nazli said, through the process of identification of sand layers in the cave, determining the radioactive age of the carbon element and analysis of microscopic fossils or foraminifera, can be known to researchers the occurrence of ancient tsunamis that once hit the mainland of Aceh. "From the research results from inside this cave is also known, since 7,400 years ago until 2004, the tsunami has occurred in Aceh as many as 11 times," he said.
According to Nazli, the tsunami occurred with a repetition after 200 years. But, there is also a happening with a span of less than 100 years. "This research is very important to know the history of the tsunami that once struck the Indian Ocean and possibly drowned some of the existing kingdoms. At the same time, assist geologists to solve future tsunami forecasts. "
Nazli added, the existence of stone caves are scattered on the coast of Aceh is very important to be maintained and preserved. Including, the cave is located in Lhoong, Aceh Besar District. In addition to research, it is useful if the cave is used as a place of learning for future generations.
"We are very hopeful, this cave is kept and not damaged by various activities, including the excavation of C that mine a stone on the cave. When collapsed or damaged, much science or knowledge will be buried. "
Nazli hopes, the Government of Aceh immediately respond to this condition. "To avoid the mining of mountain rocks near the cave, the government could develop a tour of the tsunami. Only, tourists should be limited to caves that can be entered, "he said.