I-Witness: 'Kawah Ijen,' a documentary by Kara David | Full episode (with English subtitles)

Summary

The script documents a perilous journey into the heart of an active volcano in Indonesia, where miners risk their lives to extract sulfur. It highlights the harsh working conditions, as miners carry heavy loads in toxic fumes for meager earnings. The narrative captures the miners' resilience and their aspirations for a better future for their children, away from the treacherous profession.

Takeaways

• 🌋 The script describes a perilous journey to the summit of Mount Ijen in Indonesia, known for its sulfur mining and being part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, the most volcanic region in the world.
• 🏔 Mount Ijen is one of the most beautiful yet dangerous volcanoes in Indonesia, standing at 2,799 meters or over 9,000 feet high.
• 💼 Sulfur miners, like the 65-year-old featured in the script, carry baskets filled with sulfur rocks on their shoulders, risking their health due to the toxic fumes.
• 🔥 The miners work in harsh conditions, with the risk of toxic sulfuric gas and acidic lake water, which can cause severe health issues over time.
• ⏳ The miners have a limited time to descend the volcano before the toxic fumes become too dense, making their work not only laborious but also time-sensitive.
• 😷 The narrator experiences the difficulty of breathing in the toxic fumes, necessitating the use of a gas mask, which also impairs visibility.
• 💰 The miners are paid a meager amount for their dangerous work, with the highest earner in the script receiving 24,000, equivalent to roughly 2 dollars, for their efforts.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 The miners' dream is to provide a better life for their children, hoping they will have opportunities beyond the harsh reality of sulfur mining.
• 🌅 The script mentions a rare phenomenon of blue flames appearing at the volcano's crater, which is a result of sulfur gas reacting with oxygen in the air.
• 🌍 The story highlights the resilience and determination of the miners, who are willing to risk their lives for the sake of their families' future.
• 📝 The script is a narrative by eyewitness team members, providing a firsthand account of the challenges faced by sulfur miners in Indonesia.

Q & A

What is the main activity of the people described in the script?

The main activity is sulfur mining on the slopes of an active volcano, Mount Ijen in Indonesia.

Why is Mount Ijen considered dangerous?

Mount Ijen is dangerous due to its active volcanic nature, frequent release of toxic sulfuric gas, and acidic crater lake.

What are the miners' main tools for collecting sulfur?

The miners use traditional baskets on their shoulders to carry sulfur rocks they collect from the volcano.

How long has the oldest miner in the group been working as a sulfur miner?

The oldest miner in the group has been working for 45 years.

What is the significance of the blue flames seen at night on Mount Ijen?

The blue flames are a result of sulfur gas reacting with oxygen, creating a natural phenomenon that is considered very beautiful.

What is the main hazard faced by the miners when they work near the crater?

The main hazard is the toxic and thick sulfuric gas that can be overwhelming and dangerous to breathe.

What protective equipment do the miners use against the gas and smoke?

Some miners use gas masks to protect themselves from the toxic fumes, but the visibility can be blurred due to the thick smoke.

How much does a miner typically carry on their backs when they descend the volcano?

Miners typically carry 30 to 80 kilograms of sulfur on their backs.

What is the main reason the miners continue their dangerous work despite the risks?

The miners continue their work to support their families and provide for their children's future.

What is the average payment for the sulfur collected by the miners?

The average payment for the sulfur collected is around 20,000 to 24,000 Indonesian Rupiah, which is equivalent to a few US dollars.

What dreams do the miners have for their children's future?

The miners dream of their children having better opportunities, such as becoming a doctor or police officer, rather than following in their footsteps as miners.