The Rich History of Kawah Ijen Volcano

Kawah Ijen, located at the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso regencies in East Java, Indonesia, is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its long and rich history. From the colonial era to modern times, Kawah Ijen has witnessed several significant events that have shaped it into an essential natural resource and a major tourist destination in Indonesia.

Geological History of Kawah Ijen

Kawah Ijen is part of the Ijen volcanic complex, formed as a result of volcanic activity that has lasted for millions of years. Mount Ijen itself has an elevation of approximately 2,368 meters above sea level and remains an active volcano that still shows fumarolic activity. The crater lake formed at its summit has a very low pH, around 0.5, making it one of the most acidic lakes in the world

Sulfur Mining Since the Colonial Era

Since the 18th century, Kawah Ijen has been recognized as a natural source of sulfur. In 1770, during the VOC (Dutch East India Company) rule in Java, exploration for natural resources in Kawah Ijen became more intensive. Sulfur mining was conducted for various industrial purposes, including the production of gunpowder. In 1786, sulfur mining in Kawah Ijen was particularly focused on providing sulfur for the production of gunpowder

In 1811, after the British took control of Java, sulfur mining at Kawah Ijen continued to grow. However, in 1816, the Dutch regained control of Java and resumed exploiting the natural resources in Kawah Ijen

Scientific Research and International Recognition

In 1971, French volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft conducted research at Kawah Ijen at the request of the Indonesian government and UNESCO. Their findings were published in the 1975 book titled "A l’assaut des volcans, Islande, Indonesie." Their research brought international attention to the unique natural phenomena in Kawah Ijen, including the blue fire, which can only be found in two places in the world

In 2016, Kawah Ijen was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, adding to its appeal as a unique natural site and enhancing its status as an international tourist destination

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Life of Sulfur Miners

Even today, Kawah Ijen remains a source of livelihood for around 200 sulfur miners. Every day, they take dangerous journeys to mine sulfur from the bottom of the crater. With minimal protection, they carry sulfur loads weighing between 70 and 90 kilograms through steep and hazardous terrain. Their earnings are meager, around 10,000 IDR for every 10 kilograms of sulfur they transport

The harsh and dangerous working conditions have caused many miners to suffer from serious health problems, including respiratory issues and physical deformities. Despite this, they continue their work because there are no alternative livelihoods available

Kawah Ijen as a Tourist Destination

The natural beauty of Kawah Ijen attracts tourists from all over the world. The rare blue fire phenomenon can be seen between 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM when sulfur gas escaping from the cracks in the rocks ignites, producing blue flames that are mesmerizing to witness

In addition to the blue fire, the crater lake, with its turquoise-green water and extremely low pH, adds to the breathtaking scenery. However, tourists are warned not to approach the lake due to its highly acidic and dangerous nature

To reach Kawah Ijen, tourists can travel by land from Bondowoso or Banyuwangi. The journey to the summit of the crater takes about 1 to 1.5 hours on foot through challenging terrain

The Future of Kawah Ijen

The Indonesian government plans to build a cable car system in the Kawah Ijen area to facilitate access for tourists, including the elderly, allowing them to enjoy the spectacular view without having to trek to the crater bottom

In addition, the geothermal energy potential in the area is also being explored. PT Medco Cahaya Geothermal (MCG) has been conducting exploration since 2011 and signed a contract with PT PLN for a 30-year power purchase agreement. The project is expected to be commercially operational by 2020 or 2021

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