Indonesia’s Mount Dukono volcano in North Maluku Province recently erupted, leading to the death of three people and trapping several hikers.

• The eruption sent volcanic ash nearly 10 kilometres into the atmosphere, prompting evacuation efforts and aviation warnings.

About Mount Dukono

• Mount Dukono is an active volcano located on Halmahera Island in eastern Indonesia.
• It rises to a height of about 1,087 metres above sea level.
• It is one of Indonesia’s 127 active volcanoes, making the country one of the most volcanically active regions in the world.

Key Features of the Recent Eruption

• The volcano erupted with a massive ash plume and continuous volcanic activity.
• Authorities warned people not to enter within a 4-kilometre radius of the crater area.
• Rescue teams were deployed to evacuate trapped hikers and nearby residents.
• Thick volcanic ash affected visibility and posed respiratory risks to local communities.

Why Indonesia Faces Frequent Volcanic Eruptions

• Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a highly active tectonic zone surrounding the Pacific Ocean.
• The region experiences frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis due to the movement of tectonic plates.

Exam Hook – Prelims Question

Q. Mount Dukono, recently seen in the news, is located in which country?

(a) Philippines
(b) Indonesia
(c) Japan
(d) Papua New Guinea

Answer: (b) Indonesia

One Line Wrap

• The eruption of Mount Dukono highlights the growing importance of volcanic disaster preparedness in tectonically active regions located along the Pacific Ring of Fire.