World News for Students of English

20-02-2026 15:00

A massive sinkhole in Central Aceh Regency, Indonesia, has expanded to about three hectares and threatened local farmers’ livelihoods.

According to the officials, the ground continues to move due to landslides and long-term soil movement. Drone footage shows cliffs cutting through crop fields in the area. Farmers say they have lost their land and cannot continue planting crops. One farmer, Sumiati, hopes the government will provide compensation or new land, as her farm has been destroyed. Another farmer reported that the edge of the sinkhole moved several meters in just one day.

Officials say the problem began after a 2013 earthquake, but the movement became much worse after severe flooding in late 2025. Experts warn that the sinkhole may continue to grow unless water flow in the area is properly controlled. The situation hurts the economy and brings problems for local farmers.

Difficult words: massive (very big), livelihood (a way to earn money to live), compensation (money given for loss or damage).

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