Rano Karno: 95% of Jakarta Fires Triggered by Short Circuits
The Deputy Governor of Jakarta, Rano Karno, stated that the majority of fire cases in Jakarta are caused by short circuits or electrical malfunctions. Rano requested that the public pay closer attention to the condition of electrical installations in their homes to prevent fires.
“The Jakarta Provincial Government is concerned about these incidents. Once again, what we can do is repeat our warning to the public: the first thing that must be maintained is electrical safety,” said Rano while inspecting the site of a fire in a densely populated residential area in Kebon Kosong, Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, on Tuesday (2/6/2026).
According to him, based on surveys and evaluations conducted by the Jakarta Provincial Government, most fires in the capital originate from electrical installation issues. “Because in Jakarta, on average, fires occur due to electrical short circuits. Based on our survey, it is almost 95 per cent,” he noted.
He explained that the excessive use of electricity at a single socket point is a common finding in densely populated settlements. “I apologise, everyone knows the situation. Sometimes in houses like these, one socket has 10 mobile phone chargers plugged in, along with stoves and various other appliances. As a result, overheating occurs,” he said.
Rano stated that such conditions risk triggering short circuits, which can subsequently lead to fires. Therefore, he urged residents to use electrical installations according to their capacity and safety standards.
On the other hand, he admitted that he had intended to visit the site since the night of the incident, but his visit was delayed to avoid disrupting the emergency response process. “Actually, I wanted to come here since last night, but the Mayor suggested waiting so as not to cause chaos. Sometimes, my presence can make things more complicated rather than easier,” he said.
During the visit, Rano also conveyed greetings from the Governor of Jakarta, Pramono Anung, who is currently in Medina, Saudi Arabia. “Before leaving, he called me from Medina to send his regards to the community, hoping they remain patient in facing this disaster,” he added.
Based on preliminary data from the Jakarta Provincial Government, the fire in Kebon Kosong affected 304 buildings and 354 families, impacting a total of 679 individuals. The victims are currently receiving care at evacuation centres prepared by the local government. In addition to providing shelter, the Jakarta Provincial Government is also preparing health services, public kitchens, logistical aid, and psychological support for those affected by the fire.