Jakarta – The Riau chapter of Koham (Human Rights Commission) will sue 11 plywood and pulp and paper companies operating in Riau for allegedly causing the recent flooding in the province, Antara has reported.

The companies are PT Indah Kiat Pulp and Paper group, PT Panca Eka, PT Siak Raya Timber, PT Surya Dumai, PT Arjuna Plywood, PT Kampari Plywood, PT Sarikatul Mas, PT Taman Ros Masterindo, PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP), PT Tribakti Sarimas and PT Sola Gratia.

Head of Koham Riau AB Purba said on Friday that the pulp and paper companies had allegedly destroyed forests in Riau, which resulted in widespread flooding.

"The flooding, which damaged the environment and claimed lives, is due to deforestation by the companies," he said.

Koham would also sue the Riau forestry agency for permitting the companies to operate in Riau's forests.

Widespread deforestation, including illegal logging, has been blamed for the recent flooding in Riau, which claimed at least five lives.