Government Tightens Forest and Land Fire Extinguishing Operations in Kalimantan and Sumatra
The Indonesian government is currently intensifying efforts to handle forest and land fires (karhutla) occurring in the Kalimantan and Sumatra regions. This step was taken following the emergence of thousands of hotspots that have caused thick haze in a number of areas.
Extinguishing operations are being carried out intensively via land and air. Joint teams have been deployed to reach locations that are difficult to access so that the fire does not spread to residential areas or other protected forest areas.
In addition to deploying personnel on the ground, the government is also maximizing the use of weather modification technology and water-bombing helicopters. These efforts aim to extinguish fires more quickly and reduce the impact of air pollution caused by the haze.
The thick haze conditions have begun to impact public activities and air quality in several cities. Therefore, the authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and reduce outdoor activities if air quality deteriorates.
The government is committed to continuously monitoring the development of hotspots via satellite on a regular basis. Inter-agency coordination continues to be strengthened to ensure that the handling of forest and land fires can run effectively until the situation returns to being conducive.