Strong winds hamper efforts to battle 51.4ha peat fire in Kota Tinggi

Kota Tinggi: Intense heat and strong gusts are impeding attempts to extinguish a 51.4-hectare peat fire that ignited along Jalan Bypass Sebana Cove-Punggai. Operations Commander Baharuddin Idris reported that 9.7 percent of the 35.6-hectare blaze in Sector A, and the entire 15.8-hectare Sector B, have been brought under control.

The primary obstacles are fierce winds, scorching temperatures, and a shortage of water. Water is procured via tankers in collaboration with associated agencies, including Ranhill SAJ. No fresh fires have been identified in the vicinity, and there have been no reported casualties. Firefighters are employing the direct attack technique while awaiting two excavators from other agencies, set to arrive at noon.

Baharuddin emphasized the need for more substantial amphibious excavators to construct firebreaks, particularly in Sector A. There is a risk of the fire spreading should winds intensify, although Sector B is currently under control. The fire has not endangered residential zones; the closest housing in Sebana Cove is approximately three kilometers away, while Punggai is four to five kilometers away.

The road leading to the fire was sealed off to the public since 2pm yesterday. The affected area is classified as agricultural land, with a minor section of an oil palm plantation owned by Keledang Felda and other patches yet to be tilled. The origin of the fire remains undetermined, and investigations continue. Twenty-one individuals, comprising four Civil Defence Force members, are engaged in the firefighting efforts.

Tanjung Surat assemblyman Aznan Tamin urged residents to adhere to authorities' instructions, refrain from utilizing the closed Punggai bypass, and explore alternate routes. He also warned nearby residents, particularly those in Taman Bayu Damai and Punggai, to wear masks if exposed to heavy smoke, as the Air Pollution Index (API) in the area increased to 125.

To address this incident, he expressed hope that everyone would exercise caution and abstain from open burning, especially during hot weather.