{
  "id": 3411093,
  "title": "Firefighters contain half of 51.4ha Pengerang peat fire",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/firefighters-contain-half-of-51-4ha-pengerang-peat-fire",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-26T02:42:07.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/08/1518903/firefighters-contain-half-514ha-pengerang-peat-fire"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KOTA TINGGI: Firefighters have successfully contained 25 out of 51.4 hectares of a peat soil fire in Pengerang. Muhammad Tarmizi Md Jaafar, the Johor Fire and Rescue Department's operation commander, reported that firefighting and firebreak operations are progressing smoothly, with teams conducting 24-hour surveillance of the affected area. Drone units have also been deployed to monitor the fire and track hotspots. The fire, which broke out on August 24, covers an area roughly equivalent to 73 football fields. The firefighting efforts are primarily employing the direct attack technique, while firebreaks are being established to prevent the fire's spread. However, hot, dry weather, strong winds, soft ground, narrow road shoulders, and limited access to open water sources are making the firefighting operations more challenging. Drivers using Jalan Bypass Punggai-Sebana Cove are advised to exercise caution due to reduced visibility caused by thick smoke. The Air Pollutant Index (API) in Pengerang, particularly around Taman Bayu Damai and Punggai, has reached an unhealthy level of 125, while surrounding areas in Kota Tinggi have recorded unhealthy readings of 119. Residents affected by the thick smoke are advised to wear face masks and stay indoors.",
  "summary": "KOTA TINGGI: Firefighters have contained 25 hectares of a 51.4-hectare peat soil fire along Jalan Bypass Punggai-Sebana Cove here in Pengerang here, today.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}