107,000ha of forest, land affected by fires in Indonesia as haze fear grows

JAKARTA: Over 107,000 hectares of forest and land have been impacted by fires in Indonesia, according to government data as of Monday. The Indonesian administration is working to avert transboundary haze from spreading to neighboring nations. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago disclosed that Indonesia has not received any reports as of Monday suggesting that smoke from the fires is affecting other countries.

Chaniago emphasized that these actions are not only aimed at extinguishing fires and safeguarding the environment and public health but also represent a national obligation. He stated this at a press conference on Monday, which was made available through local media YouTube pages in response to a query about the government's anticipation of potential transboundary haze affecting Malaysia and Singapore, as well as whether communication had been established with the two countries regarding the matter.

Chaniago reported that approximately 43 helicopters have been deployed for aerial operations, complemented by between 10 and 15 fixed-wing aircraft, contingent on operational requirements. Additionally, significant personnel and equipment have been mobilized on the ground. The minister highlighted that weather modification is among the most effective strategies to address the fires, provided there are suitable rain-bearing clouds.

Forecasts indicated potential cloud formation on three or four days through August 18. Chaniago mentioned that six provinces, namely Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan, are being closely monitored as the most critical areas. He cautioned that strong El Nino conditions could exacerbate forest and land fires and are projected to continue until around September or early October.