Climbers saved from forest fire

Climbers saved from forest fire

SALATIGA, Central Java: Search and Rescue (SAR) officers have
saved nine hikers and their two guides who were trapped in a
raging forest fire on the slopes of Mt. Merbabu.

The fire has already razed some 200 hectares, including pine
forest, despite efforts by the authorities and the local people
to contain it. Witnesses said the strong wind made the job
difficult.

The nine climbers were students from Jakarta and Surakarta.

Police are still investigating the cause of the fire.
(har/emb)