Fire Spreads at Putri Cempo Landfill

Efforts to extinguish the fire at the Putri Cempo landfill in Solo, Central Java, have faced significant challenges. High wind speeds in the Solo area have become a major obstacle. As of this afternoon, the flames have consumed 6 out of the 17 hectares of waste piles at the Putri Cempo landfill.

Firefighters had briefly managed to contain the flames early Wednesday (2/9). However, the fire flared up again on Thursday (3/9) morning due to strong winds. Extinguishing efforts showed some progress after personnel struggled for several hours.

Unfortunately, strong winds blew again this afternoon, reigniting remaining embers. As a result, several new fire spots have emerged in various locations.

The Head of the Solo City Environmental Agency (DLH), Herwin Tri Nugroho, stated that as of this morning, the fire was limited to Blocks B and D of the Putri Cempo landfill. However, the flames have now spread to Block C.

“Blocks B and D can now be controlled; it is only Block C that remains difficult because it is hard to reach,” Herwin said this afternoon.

Despite the expansion, the fire at the Putri Cempo landfill has not reached residential settlements. However, the smoke from the fire has spread, entering residents’ homes and several schools.

Herwin stated that his agency is working alongside the Solo City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD). He noted that the BPBD has prepared evacuation points for residents affected by the smoke from the Putri Cempo landfill fire.

“We are continuously coordinating with relevant agencies and departments. Should residents need to be evacuated at any time, the Surakarta City Government is prepared with the necessary facilities and infrastructure,” said Herwin.