South Sumatra BPBD Proposes Four Additional Water Bombing Helicopters
Palembang (ANTARA) - The South Sumatra Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has proposed the addition of four water bombing helicopter units to strengthen the handling of forest and land fires (karhutla) ahead of the peak dry season, which is predicted to occur from July to August 2026.
Sudirman, Head of the Emergency Response Division of the South Sumatra BPBD, stated in Palembang on Thursday that the proposal is part of the support from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to increase preparedness for potential forest and land fires in the region.
Overall, South Sumatra requires two aerial patrol helicopters and eight water bombing helicopters to support forest fire management operations.
“Currently, there are six units on standby in South Sumatra, consisting of two aerial patrol helicopters and four water bombing helicopters,” he said.
Therefore, the addition of four water bombing helicopters is proposed to support the acceleration of fire management when entering the peak period of the dry season.
Nevertheless, the realisation of this fleet expansion remains subject to the developing conditions of forest fires in South Sumatra and directives from the BNPB.
“The addition of water bombing helicopters is in accordance with BNPB instructions, but remains dependent on the forest fire conditions in South Sumatra,” he added.
In addition to accelerating firefighting efforts, the use of water bombing helicopters is considered effective in suppressing the potential spread of fires to other vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, the South Sumatra Provincial Government has declared a forest fire emergency alert status from 22 April 2026 to 30 November 2026 as an anticipatory measure for the dry season.
The South Sumatra BPBD also urged the public and companies not to clear land through burning, as it risks triggering more widespread fires.
“Prevention remains the primary step to ensure that forest and land fire incidents can be minimised,” said Sudirman.