Kubu Raya Regent Urges Police To Arrest Land Burners Amid Fire Risks
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| Kubu Raya Regent Sujiwo urges police to arrest land burners as forest fires threaten health, education, and the economy during the dry season. (Illustration image) |
KUBU RAYA – Kubu Raya Regent, Sujiwo, emphasized that forest and land fires (karhutla) are not just environmental issues but also pose serious threats to multiple strategic sectors. As the region enters a transition toward a prolonged dry season, the risk of fires is expected to rise significantly.
Speaking in Sungai Raya on Monday, Sujiwo firmly called on the police to take swift and decisive action against those responsible for land burning.
“The impact of these fires is very broad. It’s not just about burned land and haze, but it can paralyze many sectors. That’s why I have asked the Police Chief to arrest those responsible for land burning,” Sujiwo said.
Threat To Education And Public Health
Sujiwo explained that haze caused by forest fires can severely disrupt educational activities. In unhealthy air conditions, schools may be forced to suspend teaching and learning processes to protect students and staff.
In addition, the health sector faces serious risks. Cases of acute respiratory infections (ARI) often increase during haze events, posing a major threat to public health.
He stressed that this situation must be taken seriously to prevent a recurrence of past incidents.
Disrupting Transportation And Investment
The economic sector is also heavily affected by forest fires. One of the most immediate impacts is disruption to air transportation due to reduced visibility caused by haze.
“If flights are disrupted, economic movement will also be affected, including investment activities in the region,” he explained.
Disruptions in goods distribution and public mobility can slow economic growth and potentially reduce investor confidence.
Prevention Is The Key
In response to these risks, Sujiwo highlighted the importance of preventive measures. He urged the public not to clear land by burning under any circumstances.
The local government, along with regional leadership forums, continues to intensify public awareness campaigns to increase understanding of the dangers of forest fires.
“On behalf of the government and regional leaders, we urge the public to exercise restraint. Do not burn land because the impact is enormous for all of us,” he stressed.
Shared Responsibility
According to Sujiwo, handling forest fires cannot rely solely on the government and law enforcement. Active participation from the community is essential.
He encouraged residents to play a role in protecting the environment by simply avoiding land burning practices.
“Forest fires are a shared responsibility. The public doesn’t need to help extinguish fires—just by not burning land, that already helps significantly,” he concluded.
FAQ
1. What are the main impacts of forest fires in Kubu Raya?
They affect public health (ARI cases), education (school closures), and the economy (transportation and investment disruptions).
2. Why is land burning prohibited?
Because it can trigger large-scale fires that are difficult to control and produce harmful haze.
3. What actions is the government taking?
The government focuses on prevention, public awareness, and strict law enforcement against offenders.
4. How can the public help prevent forest fires?
By avoiding land burning and reporting suspicious activities.
5. What are the health risks of haze exposure?
The main risk is respiratory illness, especially among children and the elderly.
