Jakarta –

Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) had issued a warning to the public to always be alert to the threat of forest and land fires (karhutla), along with the large number of hotspots monitored in East Kalimantan (Kaltim). Members Commission V of the DPR Irwan hopes that the government will not only provide an appeal, but also take further action.

“The warning and invitation from BMKG are appropriate as early information to increase awareness of forest and land fires for the people of East Kalimantan and also for the government, both regional and central governments,” said Irwan to reporters, Tuesday (3/9/2024).

However, Irwan considered the appeal was not enough for the community. He encouraged further action from BMKG and the Government.
“But of course it is not enough to just warn of vigilance, there must be follow-up actions from BMKG and the government. Identification of hotspots must be done immediately for extinguishing,” he said.

Furthermore, the DPR member from East Kalimantan also urged for law enforcement with severe sanctions for parties who intentionally cause forest and land fires. That way, he continued, there will be a deterrent effect.

“Also, law enforcement actions with heavy sanctions, especially if the hotspots are deliberate and are within the forestry, plantation or mining business permits, so that there is a deterrent effect for perpetrators of forest and land burning,” he said.

Meanwhile, Irwan also asked for public education regarding the forest and land fires.

“Regarding the community, of course the approach is different, it must be sustainable by involving the community. Educating the community with the involvement of traditional leaders, community leaders, religious leaders about the dangers of forest and land fires. Considering that there are several hotspots in Kukar and Paser which are districts around the IKN, we will ask BMKG to be on alert and if necessary carry out weather modification not only in the core area of ​​the IKN but in districts/cities around the IKN,” he added.

For your information, BMKG has invited community elements to be alert to the threat of forest and land fires (karhutla), along with the large number of hotspots monitored in East Kalimantan (Kaltim).

“These precautions include not burning when managing land or opening land, not throwing cigarette butts on dry land, and a number of other precautions,” said Coordinator of Data and Information for Class I SAMS Sepinggan Station, BMKG Balikpapan, Diyan Novrida in Balikpapan, as reported by Antara.

(mom/mom)