Central Sulawesi Governor Instructs Regional BPBDs to Standby for Forest and Land Fires

All regions in Central Sulawesi must remain on alert and monitor the potential threat of forest and land fires, given that current weather conditions continue to undergo global changes.

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid has instructed the district and city Disaster Mitigation Agencies (BPBD) to be on standby in facing the potential for forest and land fires (karhutla) in the province.

“All regions in Central Sulawesi must be on alert in monitoring the potential threat of forest and land fires, considering that current weather conditions continue to change globally,” said Governor Anwar Hafid in Palu on Thursday.

He stated that the preparedness measures were based on conditions occurring in several areas since the first week of August 2026, such as Banggai Regency, Banggai Islands Regency, and Tojo Una-Una Regency.

According to a report from the Central Sulawesi BPBD, around 240 hectares of forest and land have been affected by fires in Tojo Una-Una Regency, Banggai Regency, and Banggai Islands Regency.

Firefighting efforts have involved fire engines, water tankers, and even tactical vehicles from the Indonesian National Police (water cannons) to extinguish the flames.

He explained that the current global situation due to climate change not only poses a threat of forest and land fires, but also drought that threatens the sustainability of the community’s economic resources.

“District and city governments must strengthen cross-sector collaboration in preventing forest and land fires. I urge the public not to burn branches and wood when clearing new land, as this is highly prone to triggering fires, including burning rubbish,” said Anwar Hafid.

Nevertheless, several areas are still experiencing light, moderate, and heavy rainfall.

“In addition to handling forest and land fires, anticipatory measures that can be taken now include constructing infiltration wells and conserving clean water usage. Use water sufficiently for necessary needs,” said Governor Anwar Hafid.