The Social Root On The Slopes of Mount Merapi

Words & Images by Hadi Wijaya Heryanto (Michael Hadi)

Photo Essay | Issue 01

Starting at 3 a.m., the people of Banjarsari Hamlet, Glagaharjo Village, Cangkringan District, Sleman Regency, Central Java Province – Indonesia start their economic activities at Pasar Butuh (Butuh traditional market ) which is located 15 km from the slopes of Mount Merapi (2,930mdpl) on the south side which is still active.

This mountain has a high potential for disaster because according to modern records, Mount Merapi has experienced an eruption every two to five years and is surrounded by dense settlements. Since 1548, this mountain has erupted 68 times. Last eruption in 2021.

Volcanic activity provides fertility for land on the slopes of Merapi. Material vomit from the eruption of Merapi contains many nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium. The fertility of the Merapi area is used by the people on the slopes of Merapi to grow various commodities, such as horticulture, bamboo, fruits, coffee and tobacco. Community crops and gardens such as bananas, cassava, tales, coconuts, coconut sugar, various fruits, various kinds of vegetables, chicken, firewood, are sold and some are bartered with staples for daily needs and plant cultivation on Pasar Butuh ( Butuh traditional market).

No matter how dangerous it is to live in the area of an active volcano, they still live life as usual. If it's time to evacuate when the volcano erupts they will do it, then come back again after the eruption stops. That's how they live in their village, in their home.

Photographer Hadi Wijaya Heryanto ( Michael Hadi) is based in Indonesia. His Instagram is @michaelhadigram and @michaelsign.photoart. His facebook is Michael Hadi/MichaelSignPhotoArt