11 Regions in Riau Have Declared Emergency Alert Status for Forest and Land Fires

A total of 11 regencies in Riau have established an emergency alert status for forest and land fires (Karhutla) as a precautionary measure against the increasing threat posed by the current dry season. Jim Gafur, Head of Emergency and Logistics at the Regional Disaster Management Agency and Fire Department (BPBD Damkar), stated that both the Riau provincial government and 11 local regency/city governments have implemented this status, with only Kuantan Singingi (Kuansing) remaining to do so.

The declaration of emergency status is intended to facilitate faster and more efficient coordination and the deployment of assistance between central, provincial, and local governments. Meanwhile, the Manggala Agni team from the Sumatra Forest Fire Control Office continues active firefighting operations in several locations, including Rantau Bais in Rokan Hilir, Sokoi in Pelalawan, and Kandis in Siak. While fires in Pasir Limau Kapas have been extinguished after five days of intensive handling, new fires have emerged on Rupat Island, Bengkalis Regency.

Firefighting efforts face significant challenges, including strong winds, dry vegetation, and the difficult nature of peatland terrain. In Rantau Bais, Rokan Hilir, heavy smoke and high winds have complicated operations, with an estimated 44 hectares already affected. Authorities are increasing personnel to manage the situation. Additionally, the scale of forest and land fires in Riau is facing heightened pressure due to the effects of Super El Nino, with recorded fire areas reaching 14,855 hectares between January and April 2026.