Bali forest fire almost extinguished

DENPASAR, Bali: Yesterday residents of three villages in Baturiti, Tabanan, were still fighting fires that have swept around 160 hectares of forest over the past couple of days.

"The fire is almost out and around 90 percent of the area's forest could be saved from the fire," district head Nengah Sayun was quoted by Antara news agency as saying.

He said the fire has razed around 100 hectares of bushes and 60 hectares of trees in a reserve forest.

He said the fire could spread again if strong winds continued. He added that he hoped the fire could be put out completely in just a few days.

The fire broke out near a geothermal-powered electricity plant which is under construction. (rms)