How have local families been impacted by the Mandalika circuit development?

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Impact on Local Families Due to Mandalika Circuit Development

Local families have experienced significant disruption and hardship as a direct consequence of the Mandalika circuit development. This includes forced relocations, loss of livelihoods, and restricted access to essential resources. Approximately 40 families remain in the central area of the circuit, enduring intimidation while resisting eviction.
Evictions and Displacement

The construction of the Mandalika circuit has necessitated the relocation of numerous villages. While some families have moved voluntarily, others have been compelled to leave their homes. Residents have reported facing intimidation tactics and a constant struggle to access their properties, describing a "cat-and-mouse game" with security personnel. One farmer, Sibawai, recounted being forcibly removed by a large contingent of approximately 700 personnel in January 2021 when he attempted to prevent bulldozers from entering his land.
Loss of Livelihoods and Resources

Many villagers have seen their established livelihoods disappear due to the project. Farmers have had their land confiscated, and fishermen have been displaced from their coastal fishing grounds. Compounding these issues, the construction of tunnels beneath the circuit has caused local wells to run dry for the past six months, leaving residents without a reliable water source. Access to education has also been affected, with children reportedly facing blockades and needing to use a tunnel to reach their schools.
Coercion and Inadequate Compensation

There are reports that some families have been coerced into accepting compensation packages for their land that are considered meager. Human rights lawyer Widodo Dwi Putro has stated that security forces have been deployed to remove some families, while others have been pressured into accepting inadequate settlements. Abdul Latif, a resident who remains on his land within the circuit, expressed feelings of abandonment and isolation, describing his situation as being "like a bird in a cage."
International Scrutiny Over Human Rights Concerns

The development has drawn criticism from United Nations experts, who have urged the Indonesian government and involved companies to uphold human rights. These experts cited complaints related to land grabbing, the eviction of indigenous communities, and the intimidation of individuals who defend local populations. Despite these concerns, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, a potential contributor to the project, stated that its study did not identify any human rights violations.

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How have local families been impacted by the Mandalika circuit development?

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