Hong Kong families hit as volcanic ash strands up to 200 helpers in Indonesia

Up to 200 Hong Kong-bound domestic helpers find themselves stranded in Indonesia as volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatoa's eruption disrupts air travel. Despite the reopening of several affected airports, the Indonesian transport ministry reports ongoing disruptions, with several agencies bracing for further closures. Among those stranded are 150 to 200 helpers, including new recruits and workers returning home on holiday.

Cheung Kit-man, chairman of the Hong Kong Employment Agencies Association, expressed concern over the situation, stating that while some helpers will be allowed to depart on Wednesday, flights could be suspended again if further eruptions occur. Agencies have prioritized these helpers on standby lists with airlines. Betty Yung, chairwoman of the Hong Kong Employers of Overseas Domestic Helpers Association, emphasized the disruption to families, who are particularly concerned about helpers caring for the elderly.

Four flights from Jakarta to Hong Kong were initially scheduled for Tuesday, but all were canceled, affecting nearly 3,000 flights and stranding over 340,000 passengers.