Darurat Kabut Asap di Kalimantan

Summary

The situation in South Kalimantan regarding forest and land fires (karhutla) is still critical, with significant smoke and air pollution. The air quality index in Banjarmasin is currently between 27 and 30, lower than the peak of 303 in previous days. Fires are mainly concentrated in three regions: Barito Kuala, Banjar, and Banjarbaru, particularly in peatland areas. Authorities are actively working on fire suppression and water spraying efforts. The local government has implemented distance learning for schools until October 7 due to the hazardous conditions, and discussions continue regarding the potential extension of school closures.

Takeaways

• 😀 The air pollution index in Banjarmasin, Kalimantan Selatan, has improved slightly, ranging from 27 to 30, compared to over 300 a few days ago.
• 😀 The major ongoing forest and land fires are concentrated in three regions: Barito Kuala, Banjar, and Banjarmasin.
• 😀 Most of the fires are occurring in peatland areas, which are particularly vulnerable to frequent fires.
• 😀 The local government has set up several posts in key areas to monitor and address fire-related issues and to perform water-spraying operations.
• 😀 These fires have been persistent, with daily outbreaks, especially near the Sam Sam Banjarmasin area and Banjarbaru.
• 😀 Authorities are concerned that dry, hot weather could lead to more intense fires, especially when strong winds spread sparks.
• 😀 There are fires in areas around the Pengayuan area of Banjarbaru and near the Banjar District Terminal.
• 😀 The scale of the fires has increased significantly compared to previous years, marking a notable environmental concern.
• 😀 Local governments, especially in Banjarmasin, are still evaluating the situation and have not made a final decision regarding the continuation of school closures.
• 😀 A temporary measure to hold distance learning for students up to middle school level was enacted, and authorities are holding meetings to assess its extension or end by October 7.

Q & A

What is the current situation regarding the air pollution in Banjarmasin?

The air pollution in Banjarmasin is relatively mild compared to previous days, with the pollution index ranging between 27 and 30. This is lower than the 303 index recorded a few days ago.

What are the main areas affected by the forest and land fires in South Kalimantan?

The fires are mainly concentrated in three regions: Barito Kuala, Banjar Regency, and Banjarbaru City. These areas are experiencing significant activity, with fires mostly affecting peatland.

Why is the situation in Banjarbaru particularly concerning?

Banjarbaru is of particular concern because fires occur almost daily in this area, especially in peatland areas near the Banjarmasin airport, which are highly susceptible to ignition due to dry weather conditions.

How are the authorities responding to the ongoing forest fires?

Authorities have established several posts in key locations for fire suppression activities. These efforts include spraying water to dampen the fires and prevent sparks from reigniting, especially on hot days with strong winds.

What measures have been taken regarding schools in the affected areas?

Schools, especially from PAUD (early childhood education) to Junior High School, have been instructed to implement distance learning until October 7. The local government in Banjarmasin is evaluating whether this measure will be extended or not.

What is the impact of the fires on air quality and daily life in Banjarmasin?

The fires have caused significant air pollution in Banjarmasin, leading to haze. This situation affects air quality, making it hazardous, and has prompted school closures and public health concerns.

Are the local governments making any efforts to improve the situation?

Yes, local governments are holding special meetings to assess the situation and decide whether the school closures should continue. They are also working with firefighting teams to contain the fires and reduce the haze.

What caused the increase in forest fires this year compared to previous years?

The increase in forest fires this year is linked to the extensive burning of peatland, particularly in areas near Banjarmasin. These areas are prone to fires, which have been exacerbated by dry weather conditions.

How are fire-fighting teams managing the fires in peatland areas?

Fire-fighting teams are focusing on damping down fires in peatland areas, where the risk of fire reignition is high due to the dry conditions. They are placing posts in strategic locations to monitor and suppress the fires effectively.

What challenges do the authorities face in preventing the spread of fires?

One of the main challenges is the strong winds and dry weather, which cause sparks to spread quickly. The authorities are constantly monitoring the situation and attempting to contain fires before they escalate into larger, uncontrollable blazes.