Pondok Balik village in Aceh province, Indonesia, is currently confronting a dire situation as the ground beneath their feet gradually sinks, leading to the formation of a massive sinkhole. This sinkhole has reportedly expanded to cover approximately 3 hectares (around 30,000 square meters) and is increasingly devouring agricultural land. The advancing pit poses a threat to nearby homes and has generated a sense of dread within the community, especially as images captured by drones reveal its alarming growth.

The issue of subsidence has been lingering for years, but it intensified significantly following severe rains and floods at the end of 2025. Experts suggest that the primary cause of this ground collapse is subsurface erosion, exacerbated by the area's geological makeup. The soil in this region is primarily composed of loose volcanic ash, which semis often washes away under the influence of water. As groundwater seeps into the soil, it creates voids that lead the surface above to suddenly give way, resulting in the deepening sinkhole which has now reached depths of about 100 meters.

The growing sinkhole, now extending dangerously close to main roads, highlights the vulnerabilities of areas subjected to volcanic soil conditions in Indonesia. The phenomenon serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by geological instabilities and the potential consequences for residential and agricultural communities in such regions. As local residents grapple with this alarming development, authorities may face mounting pressure to find a solution to this emerging natural disaster that threatens both livelihoods and property.