Minister: 540,000 Canal Blocks Needed to Reduce Forest Fires to Zero

Indonesia needs to build 540,000 canal blocks to reduce forest and land fires to zero, according to Environment Minister and Head of the Environmental Control Agency Moh Jumhur Hidayat. Speaking during a visit to Kuala Kampar District, Pelalawan Regency, Riau, on Thursday, he noted that much of the country’s land consists of unavoidable peatlands. If not continuously saturated with water while exposed to sunlight, these peatlands can heat up and potentially ignite. “To reduce fires to near zero, we need to build 540,000 canal blocks. Currently, we have only built around 50,000, so we are still at 10 per cent. This requires funding and education,” he said. He also emphasised the importance of compensating communities that may be affected during construction, ensuring that budget calculations prioritise community empowerment. “We invite everyone to participate in accelerating and expanding canal block construction across the Republic of Indonesia. Hopefully, with effort and strong prayers, God will not permit fire or heat to burn our lands,” he added. The minister also mentioned plans to discuss artificial rain with the National Disaster Management Agency to help retain water in the area. Accompanied by Pelalawan Regent Zukri Misran, Riau Police Chief Herry Heryawan, and representatives from the provincial government and BNPB, the minister underscored the need for collaborative efforts to protect the environment from forest fires and drought. During discussions with residents, Regent Zukri stressed the importance of community involvement and mutual cooperation as mitigation measures ahead of a predicted super El Niño in 2026, which is expected to last from July to December, peaking between July and September.