A giant mud volcano that erupted five years ago (05/29/2006)
near a gas drilling site in Indonesia is still spewing toxic
sludge. It has destroyed entire villages in eastern Java and
scientists say it will continue to erupt for years to come.
Isman feeds his chickens and cows behind his in-laws’ home in
Gempolsari village. The 56-year-old was once a builder, but now
makes a modest living from his livestock. Five years ago, a mud
volcano erupted nearby and destroyed his home and possessions,
as well as the local economy. As the volcano continues to spew
toxic sludge and gas that pollutes the air, residents of the
once active community of fishermen and factory workers have fled
- Gempolsari is now a sleepy town. Isman is just one of
thousands of victims in Sidoarjo district still waiting for
promised compensation. He says that the gas drilling company
believed to be responsible for the eruption owes him 30 percent
of his $1,000. He needs the money to rebuild his house and move
on with his life. "I have been com