BPBD Kotim Extinguishes Land Fire In Mentawa Baru, Residents Urged To Stay Alert
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| BPBD Kotim extinguished a 0.95-hectare land fire in Mentawa Baru Ketapang and urged residents to stay alert as wildfire risks rise during dry conditions. |
A land and forest fire has once again occurred in Kotawaringin Timur (Kotim), Central Kalimantan, prompting a swift response from the local Disaster Management Agency (BPBD).
Head of BPBD Kotim, Multazam, stated that the fire broke out on a privately owned plantation belonging to a resident identified as Muhajirin. The affected area is located in Bangkuang Makmur Village, Mentawa Baru Ketapang District.
“The burned area is estimated to be around three hectares. The landowner was not aware that a fire had started on the property,” Multazam said in Sampit on Friday.
Fire Started On Wednesday Afternoon
The fire was first detected on Wednesday afternoon (March 25). Emergency teams immediately deployed to the scene and worked to extinguish the flames until late evening, continuing efforts the following morning.
A total of 10 BPBD personnel were dispatched, supported by seven members of the Manggala Agni fire brigade. The team had to travel approximately 4.2 kilometers from the Sampit–Samuda main road, passing through Eka Bahurui Village to reach the site.
Peatland Conditions Complicate Firefighting Efforts
The fire burned through shrubs and vegetation on peatland, which presents significant challenges during firefighting operations. Peat fires are known to spread underground, making them difficult to fully extinguish.
The firefighting and cooling process lasted more than six hours, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:11 p.m. local time.
“We managed to contain and cool down approximately 0.95 hectares of burned land. There is still residual smoke, so cooling efforts were necessary,” Multazam explained.
Another Fire Reported A Day Earlier
A day before this incident, another land fire was reported on Jalan Ir Soekarno in Baamang Tengah Subdistrict, Baamang District. This indicates an increasing risk of wildfires in the region.
Authorities Urge Public Not To Burn Land
With rainfall intensity decreasing and dry conditions emerging, BPBD Kotim is urging residents not to clear land by burning.
Preventive measures are considered crucial, especially since much of the region consists of peat soil, which becomes highly flammable during dry seasons.
“Once peatland catches fire, it can burn beneath the surface and is very difficult to extinguish. That’s why prevention is our top priority,” Multazam emphasized.
Authorities hope that increased public awareness will help prevent further incidents and reduce the risk of haze that can impact public health.
FAQ
1. Where did the land fire occur?
The fire occurred in Bangkuang Makmur Village, Mentawa Baru Ketapang District, Kotawaringin Timur.
2. How large was the affected area?
Approximately 0.95 hectares of land were successfully extinguished.
3. What caused the fire?
The exact cause remains unknown, and the landowner was unaware of the incident.
4. Why are peatland fires dangerous?
Because they can spread underground, making them difficult to detect and extinguish.
5. What is BPBD’s recommendation to residents?
Residents are urged not to clear land by burning to prevent wildfires.
