Why Do Fires Frequently Occur in Jakarta? Rano Karno Explains

A massive fire behind Pasar Jiung, in the Kebon Kosong sub-district of Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, has destroyed 304 buildings. The incident has left 354 families, totalling 679 individuals, affected by the blaze.

The Deputy Governor of Jakarta, Rano Karnaryo, suspects that the intense fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Consequently, he has repeatedly reminded the public to ensure the condition of electrical installations in their homes is properly maintained.

“The Jakarta Provincial Government is concerned about this incident, and once again, what we can do is warn the public that the first thing that must be guarded is electricity,” he stated in Kemayoran on Tuesday.

According to him, the majority of fires occurring in Jakarta are caused by electrical short circuits, with the figure potentially reaching 95 per cent. “Based on our surveys, almost 95 per cent of fires in Jakarta occur due to electrical short circuits,” he added.

Therefore, Rano reiterated the importance of preventing fires caused by short circuits, one way being to avoid excessive electrical loads. “I apologise, but as everyone knows the situation, sometimes in houses like these, one socket has ten mobile phone chargers plugged into it, along with various other appliances, which results in overheating. This is the reality we face,” he said.

It is reported that 304 buildings were impacted by the fire. Furthermore, 354 families, comprising 679 individuals, were affected, including 326 men and 353 women. Among the affected residents, there are 35 elderly people, 90 toddlers, 53 primary school children, 6 junior high school students, 22 vocational high school students, and 414 adults, including pregnant women.