Indonesia Enhances Fire Response Across Kalimantan

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has intensified integrated forest and land fire operations across Kalimantan. The move follows a sharp increase in high-confidence hotspots as of 19 August 2026.

West Kalimantan recorded 259 high-confidence hotspots that morning, while Central Kalimantan recorded 242. South Kalimantan recorded 17 hotspots, bringing the three-province total to 518.

In a written statement on Thursday, August 20, 2026, the Forestry Ministry stated that three provinces recorded 750 high-confidence hotspots during 17-19 August 2026. The government said hotspots require field verification to confirm fires and burned areas.

Authorities are coordinating efforts involving ministries, disaster agencies, security forces, volunteers, businesses, and communities. Public safety and health remain the government's main priorities during the response.

Firefighters are conducting patrols, field checks, suppression, cooling, and firebreak operations across priority areas. Officials are also strengthening water supplies as surface sources become increasingly limited.

Indonesia is additionally adjusting weather modification operations according to atmospheric conditions and available clouds. West Kalimantan conducted nine weather modification flights between 13 and 17 August.

Central Kalimantan completed 13 flights across two operational periods during late July and August. Officials said weather modification remains conditional on suitable clouds and technical requirements.

Air operations are also being strengthened, particularly in Central Kalimantan's difficult-to-access fire areas. Forestry Minister, Raja Juli Antoni, coordinated with National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) to add water-bombing aircraft support.

However, dense smoke can restrict visibility and prevent safe helicopter operations. Ground teams therefore continue suppression, cooling, patrols, and containment whenever air operations face limitations.

Authorities are also following up public reports about smoke and reduced visibility. “The government understands public concerns and ensures every report is handled seriously,” the Forestry Ministry said in their written statement.

Recent observations showed visibility conditions varied significantly between locations and improved in several areas. Officials also continue investigating fire causes and will enforce regulations when violations are found.