West Java Declares Drought and Forest Fire Emergency Alert Status
The West Java Provincial Government has established an Emergency Alert Status for drought and forest and land fires (Karhutla), effective from 1 July until 30 September.
“This status is an anticipatory measure to face potential disasters during the dry season. This Decree is not intended to cause concern, but rather serves as a form of readiness so that all elements of government, society, and stakeholders can act more quickly before risks develop into disasters,” stated the Head of the West Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Teten Ali Mulku Engkun, on Thursday (2/7).
BPBD West Java, he continued, will remain on alert and present for the community. “Let us work together to protect the environment, use water wisely, refrain from land clearing through burning, and immediately report any potential fires or conditions that may pose a danger.”
He explained that most areas in West Java have entered the dry season period. This condition requires collective attention, as it has the potential to increase the risk of drought, clean water crises, forest and land fires, as well as fires in residential areas.
According to Teten, the Emergency Alert Status serves as a foundation to strengthen prevention, preparedness, and disaster risk mitigation measures. Vigilance should not begin when problems arise, but long before they occur.
“The public is urged to start using water wisely, avoid open burning, refrain from discarding cigarette butts carelessly, and immediately report any potential incidents that could trigger fires,” he concluded.
He added that the dry season should not be feared, but rather faced with preparedness. “Small steps taken today can help reduce the risk of disasters in the future. Small steps taken together today will become a great strength in keeping West Java safe, resilient, and ready to face the dry season.”
In parts of Sukabumi City, West Java, water crises have already begun to emerge following the reduction in rainfall intensity.
Furthermore, the West Bandung Regency Government has also established an Emergency Alert Status for drought and forest and land fires, effective until September 2026. Drought in Gemuruh and Serang Villages was triggered by a decrease in water source discharge after the Siwuluh irrigation canal embankment breached some time ago.