BNPB Strengthens Integrated Wildfire Response in South Kalimantan

RRI.CO.ID, Banjarmasin - Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) enhances integrated wildfire response in South Kalimantan. BNPB Chief Suharyanto led a coordination meeting in Banjarmasin on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

He also emphasized unified data and stronger coordination among agencies handling forest and land fires. He said integrated information would help field teams determine priorities and develop operational strategies.

The unified data should cover fire locations, burned areas, suppression results, personnel, and operational support needs. Consistent information would help each team understand conditions and deploy resources more precisely.

He conveyed that wildfire response requires close coordination among local governments, military and police personnel, Manggala Agni, volunteers, and communities. BNPB is also encouraging additional ground teams, with each team potentially comprising around 15 personnel.

He highlighted the importance of ensuring field efforts are properly reported and communicated between all involved units. He delivered the following statement during the coordination meeting.

“Efforts on the ground must not go unreported. Whenever something is lacking, we must communicate immediately,” he said.

BNPB also reported that six helicopters currently support wildfire response in South Kalimantan. Aerial water bombing is being combined with ground suppression, while weather modification operations continue as part of the response.

Based on BNPB data as of Tuesday, September 22, the province had a response target covering 125.31 hectares. Of that total, 62.15 hectares had been extinguished, while 63.16 hectares remained under response.

Suharyanto said wildfire risks still require strong attention until the rainy season is expected during the first ten days of November. These efforts aim to prevent new fires and reduce the risk of previously extinguished areas burning again.