Dry ground, strong winds fuel 12ha Kota Tinggi peatland fire

KOTA TINGGI: Firefighters are currently engaged in a battle against a 12ha inferno in peatland and surrounding scrub near an oil palm plantation in Punggai. The operation is anticipated to persist for another two to three days. The fire, which ignited near the plantation, was initially reported at 6.28pm yesterday. Ezam Mistorerroodin, operations commander of the Punggai fire and rescue station, disclosed that dry ground and powerful winds are exacerbating the fire's rapid spread.

He also stated that smoke plumes and fresh flames are still being observed at the location this morning. Firefighting efforts are being concentrated on direct attacks utilizing two hose lines powered by water from a nearby open drain. Additionally, total flooding is being employed to smother smoldering hotspots and regions with dense smoke, according to Mistorerroodin in a statement today.

The impacted area remains at 12ha, with firefighters managing to douse approximately 10 per cent of the fire. The containment operation is projected to continue for two to three days, as weather conditions, terrain, and strong winds are impeding efforts to fully control the blaze.