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 helicopters to strengthen the handling of forest and land fires (karhutla) ahead of the peak dry season, which is expected to occur in July and August 2026. Sudirman, Head of the Emergency Handling Division at BPBD South Sumatra, stated on Thursday that the proposal is part of support from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to enhance preparedness for potential karhutla in the region. Overall, South Sumatra requires two air patrol helicopters and eight water bombing helicopters to support fire suppression operations. “Currently, there are six units on standby in South Sumatra, consisting of two patrol helicopters and four water bombing helicopters,” he said. Therefore, the addition of four water bombing helicopters is proposed to accelerate karhutla handling during the peak dry season. However, the realisation of the fleet increase will depend on the development of karhutla conditions in South Sumatra and directives from BNPB. “This addition of water bombing helicopters is in accordance with BNPB’s instructions, but it still depends on the karhutla conditions in South Sumatra,” he stated. Besides speeding up extinguishing efforts, the use of water bombing helicopters is also considered effective in suppressing the potential spread of fires to other vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, the South Sumatra Provincial Government has declared a karhutla emergency alert status from 22 April 2026 to 30 November 2026 as an anticipatory measure for the dry season. BPBD South Sumatra also urges the public and companies not to clear land by burning, as it risks triggering larger fires. “Prevention remains the primary measure to minimise karhutla incidents,” Sudirman said.