Natuna BPBD Intensifies Patrols and Awareness Campaigns on Forest and Land Fire Hazards

Natuna (ANTARA) - The Natuna District Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), in Riau Islands Province, is intensifying patrols and awareness campaigns on the dangers of forest and land fires (karhutla) as preventive and mitigation measures.

The Head of BPBD Natuna, Raja Darmika, in Natuna on Monday, stated that in early 2026, the Natuna Regency Government declared an emergency alert status for disasters including floods, landslides, extreme weather, high tides, and abrasion.

Subsequently, on 26 March 2026, this status was elevated to emergency response due to extreme weather, drought, and karhutla. This situation was triggered by the El Niño phenomenon, which caused drought leading to fires covering hundreds of hectares.

However, since 2 April 2026, the status has been downgraded back to emergency alert as the karhutla conditions have begun to subside thanks to on-the-ground handling efforts.

In these awareness campaigns, the public is urged not to clear land by burning. Currently, vegetation in Natuna is drying out due to El Niño, which has reduced rainy days, particularly in March, thereby increasing fire risks.

“If burning is unavoidable, do it safely, such as by slashing first, gathering the cuttings in one spot, and burning under supervision to prevent spread,” she said.

BPBD is also encouraging village, sub-district, and district governments to conduct patrols. This is crucial to prevent fires and, if they occur, to handle them promptly before they spread.