Indonesians on fire-ravaged West Kalimantan sue state for clean air

Residents of Indonesia's West Kalimantan province are suing the government for failing to prevent devastating wildfires that have caused a public health crisis. Environmental NGO members and affected communities filed a class action case against President Prabowo Subianto and 26 other government officials. They argue that the government neglected its duty to protect citizens from the haze emitted by the fires, leading to illnesses, school closures, and economic disruptions.

The plaintiffs demand clean air, a healthy environment, and compensation for health issues and damages caused by the disaster. The government has deployed firefighters and used cloud-seeding and water-bombing, but with limited success. Indigenous groups and non-governmental organizations claim the government failed to provide adequate resources and equipment to combat the fires.

They seek a national emergency declaration, free health services, and compensation for victims. The government acknowledged the legal action and stated that many concerns are being addressed, but the plaintiffs remain unconvinced, pointing to previous severe fire incidents.