Hillside Land in Kebasen, Banyumas, Catches Fire; Flames Extinguished in 1.5 Hours

A fire broke out on government-owned land managed by residents in the hills of the Overpass Kebasen complex, Gambarsari Village, Kebasen District, Banyumas Regency, Central Java, on Wednesday (19/8). The flames burned approximately one hectare of dry scrub.

The fire, which occurred during the dry season, was extinguished in less than two hours after residents reported seeing smoke rising from the site. No casualties were reported in the incident.

The fire was first noticed at around 2.08 p.m. local time. A resident passing along the Gambarsari-Kebasen road saw thick smoke billowing from the hillside area. The resident then informed other locals, and the report was relayed to the Kebasen Police Chief.

Upon receiving the report, Kebasen Police Chief Adjutant Commissioner Agus Rokhim and several officers immediately headed to the location. Police then coordinated with the Kebasen Military Command, firefighters, forestry officials, sub-district and village authorities, and residents to extinguish the blaze.

Thanks to the rapid response and cooperation of various parties, the fire was brought under control and extinguished at around 3.45 p.m. After the flames were put out, officers checked the surrounding area to ensure no remaining embers or hotspots that could potentially reignite the fire.

The police chief commended the quick action of residents who promptly reported the fire after spotting the smoke.

“The speed with which residents reported the incident greatly assisted officers in handling it from the outset. With a swift report, the fire could be quickly contained and extinguished so that it did not spread,” said Agus Rokhim.

Police reminded the public to remain vigilant against the risk of land fires during the dry season. Dried shrubs, grass, and vegetation make it easier for fire to spread rapidly.

Residents were also urged not to burn rubbish or clear land by burning. In addition, the public was advised not to discard cigarette butts carelessly and to report immediately if they spot smoke or hotspots in their area.

“We urge the public to work together to prevent fires. Do not wait for the fire to grow. If you see signs of a fire, report it immediately so that it can be dealt with as quickly as possible,” the police chief concluded.