BNPB Chief Warns Regional Governments to Be Vigilant Against Landfill Fires During Dry Season

The Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Suharyanto, has reminded all district and city governments to increase their vigilance against the potential for fires at final disposal sites (TPA), following the blaze at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency, Banten. Speaking after inaugurating a Bailey bridge in Plosogading Village, Candiroto District, Temanggung Regency, Central Java, on Friday, Suharyanto said the warning serves as an alarm for regions to strengthen preventive measures against landfill fires. He explained that the Jatiwaringin landfill fire, now in its fourth day, is showing positive developments. Hotspots have continued to decrease following integrated firefighting efforts via land routes and water bombing operations deploying two helicopters. “The fire is not yet completely extinguished, but it has significantly diminished and is showing good results. Our target is for the handling to be completed today,” he said. He stressed that the Jatiwaringin landfill fire must serve as a lesson for all regional governments. Every district and city that has a landfill is urged to immediately conduct inspections and strengthen mitigation measures, especially as the dry season approaches, which increases the risk of fires. “Do not let the Jatiwaringin case spread to other regions. All districts and cities with landfills must thoroughly conduct checks and increase their vigilance,” said the BNPB Chief.