Summary
Indonesia's government is suing six companies for over $200 million in damages following deadly floods in Sumatra last year. The government blames deforestation by these companies for making the floods worse. They plan to use the money for fines and recovery efforts.
Key Facts
- Indonesia is suing six companies for over $200 million due to harmful environmental practices.
- The lawsuits relate to deadly floods in Sumatra that killed more than 1,000 people.
- The government says deforestation worsened the floods, washing mud and logs into villages.
- The lawsuits were filed in Jakarta and Medan to seek damages and recovery costs.
- Indonesia's Environment Minister emphasized the "polluter pays" principle.
- Environmental audits are ongoing for more than 100 companies in affected areas.
- A special task force has identified 12 companies suspected of causing floods and landslides.
- Environmentalists criticize the government for not doing enough and granting land use permits.
