Wildfire Ravages Tambora Savanna, Threatening UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

RRI.CO.ID, Mataram - A massive wildfire has scorched nearly 2,000 hectares of savanna in Tambora National Park, Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, threatening wildlife habitats, local communities, and one of Indonesia’s UNESCO biosphere reserves.

The blaze was first detected on Sunday, July 5, at 1:30 p.m. local time in the Piong Resort area. Forestry Law Enforcement Director General Dwi Januanto Nugroho said dry conditions, flammable savanna vegetation, strong winds, mountainous terrain, and limited water sources allowed the flames to spread rapidly.

Teams from the Jabalnusra Forest Fire Control Center, Tambora National Park, community fire groups, and related agencies have been battling the fire.

“The blaze not only endangers high-value conservation areas and wildlife but also risks affecting nearby communities, air quality, and nature tourism that supports local economies,” Dwi Januanto noted, as quoted by Antara.

Since the outbreak, Tambora National Park staff and community volunteers have worked to contain the fire while monitoring hotspots. To reinforce operations, the Forestry Ministry deployed a Manggala Agni firefighting unit from Mataram to join forces with local teams in Bima.

Officials stressed that fire prevention requires collective responsibility. “Government efforts alone are not enough. Collaboration is essential, and any violations of law leading to fires will be prosecuted,” Dwi said.

Head of the Forest Fire Control Center for Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara, Bambang Setyo Antoko, explained that firefighting strategies are being adjusted to Tambora’s terrain, where flames can spread quickly under strong winds and scarce water.

“Operations remain ongoing, with safety prioritized while protecting areas that can still be saved,” he said.

The Forestry Ministry has urged local administrations, tourism operators, and communities to remain vigilant during the dry season, avoid activities that could spark fires, and report any signs of burning immediately.

Tambora National Park spans 71,645 hectares and is recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. It shelters diverse wildlife, including the Yellow-crested Cockatoo, Red-headed Parrot, Rainbow Bee-eater, and Timor Deer, while also serving as a vital ecotourism destination for surrounding communities. ***