Joint Task Force Controls 21.51-Hectare Fire in Pangkep

Joint task forces are continuing firefighting and containment efforts to control a land fire in Pangkajene and Kepulauan (Pangkep) Regency, South Sulawesi, with the affected area reaching approximately 21.51 hectares.

“Extinguishing efforts have been undertaken to prevent the spread of the fire and to stop it from approaching residential areas located near the fire site,” said Rajab, Head of the Bantimurung-Bulusaraung National Park (TN-Babul), when confirmed from Makassar on Friday.

He stated that joint officers are using direct suppression methods on fire hotspots located at the base of the burnt area.

“The steps we took last night involved using direct suppression methods on the hotspots. We are collaborating with the Pangkep Regency Fire Department and the PT Semen Tonasa fire brigade to supply water, which has enabled us to suppress the spread of the fire,” said Rajab.

According to monitoring by field officers, the nearest fire hotspot is approximately 150 metres from residential areas. This situation has prompted joint officers to remain on alert around the location to anticipate the possibility of the fire spreading again.

Joint officers are also continuously monitoring the movement of the fire and creating firebreaks in areas that could potentially serve as paths for the fire to spread towards settlements.

Through these efforts, Rajab noted that officers hope the fire can be fully controlled so that it does not cause wider impacts on the community and the environment surrounding the affected area.

As of now, officers remain on-site to conduct monitoring, firefighting, and cooling operations until the situation is declared safe.