Riau and Jambi Wildfires Extinguished, Ministry Strengthens Forest Fire Control in Kalimantan

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Forestry has announced the extinguishment of tropical rainforest fires (Karhutla) that occurred in Riau and Jambi provinces. The ministry has confirmed that fire activities in these regions have ceased and is now strengthening wildfire control measures in Kalimantan. Tropical rainforest fires are a recurring and serious issue in Indonesia, with the risk of occurrence increasing during the dry season. Fires not only cause air pollution (haze) but also lead to ecological destruction, damage to agriculture and forestry, and significant impacts on the regional economy. In the past, smoke from these fires has spread to neighboring countries, leading to diplomatic issues. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry plans to enhance its fire monitoring system, promote preventive activities in collaboration with local communities, and establish a rapid response system for fire incidents. Kalimantan, in particular, with its vast forest areas and peatlands, faces the potential for immense damage if fires occur, necessitating focused countermeasures. Source: Sindonews