Putri Cempo Landfill Fire Enters Decisive Phase, Block B Targeted for Extinguishing Within Seven Days
Efforts to extinguish the fire at the Putri Cempo Final Processing Site (TPA) in Surakarta, Central Java, are beginning to show positive developments. As of Monday evening, 7 September 2026, the burning area has continued to shrink overall.
Acting Head of the Disaster Data, Information and Communication Centre at BNPB, Berton SP Panjaitan, Ph.D., said two previously affected areas have now been declared safe. However, firefighting efforts remain focused on Block B, which still has a number of hotspots.
“Block C and Block D have been declared safe. Meanwhile, Block B is still being handled because there are still areas burning,” said Berton SP Panjaitan in his statement on Tuesday, 8 September 2026.
According to Berton, the joint team is targeting the fire in Block B to be fully extinguished within the next seven days. Operations will continue to be adjusted according to conditions found by personnel on the ground.
“Handling is being prioritised in the Block B area, particularly around the extra-high voltage power line (SUTET) corridor where hotspots remain. Extinguishing is being carried out from land routes using water injection and spraying methods,” he explained.
To support the process, water availability remains a key concern. Personnel are optimising the hydrants at the Waste-to-Energy Plant (PLTSa) facility while also adding water tanks to ensure supply is maintained throughout the operation.
The firefighting operation involves personnel from the Solo Raya region, Semarang and Cilacap, reinforced by elements of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri) and volunteers.
“Personnel needs continue to be strengthened through cross-regional support. In the field there are still a number of obstacles, one of which is damage and leaks in several fire hoses,” Berton revealed.
In addition to ground handling, BNPB together with the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) have begun preparing the option of a Weather Modification Operation (OMC). Its implementation will depend on atmospheric conditions and the availability of clouds meeting operational requirements.
“BNPB together with BMKG is preparing the option of a Weather Modification Operation. Its implementation will be adjusted according to the availability of clouds that meet operational requirements,” said Berton.
As the extinguishing process continues, smoke conditions around the landfill are also reported to be steadily decreasing. Nevertheless, smoke exposure is still being felt in parts of Karanganyar Regency.