Merapi Ungup-ungup Nature Reserve Threatened by Fire, Ijen Crater Tourism Closed Completely

A forest and land fire has broken out in the Merapi Ungup-ungup Nature Reserve area, Banyuwangi, East Java. Consequently, management has completely suspended all activities within the region.

According to reports on Friday (4/9/2026), the East Java Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) has closed the Ijen area effective from 4 September 2026. The closure will remain in place until further notice.

The announcement letter, numbered PG.2245/K.2-BIDTEK/KSA.04.01/Β/9/2026 and signed by the Head of BBKSDA East Java, Nur Patria Kurniawan, applies to all visitors and activities within the area.

“This applies to all visitors and all activities within the Ijen Crater Tourism Park and Nature Reserve,” explained Purwantono, Head of the Regional KSDA Division 3 Jember.

Purwantono stated that firefighting efforts are currently being carried out by officers and volunteers. These efforts are being undertaken to ensure the fire is extinguished quickly and does not spread further.

“This involves all parties, including the TNI/Polri, local BPBD (Disaster Management Agency), volunteers, tourism stakeholders, and other relevant elements,” concluded Purwantono.

It was previously reported that the forest and land fire occurred in the Ijen mountain area on Thursday (3/9), specifically within the Merapi Ungup-ungup Nature Reserve area.