Buku Deru-Deru landfill fire in Ternate requires emergency water deployment

A major fire broke out at the Buku Deru-Deru landfill in Takome, West Ternate, North Maluku, on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The blaze reportedly began around 1:00 PM WIT, originating from an empty shack within the facility.

Extinguishing efforts have been complicated by strong winds, dry waste piles caused by the dry season, and limited local water sources. The fire spread rapidly from inactive zones to active operational areas of the landfill, which covers a total of 31.24 hectares, with approximately 15 hectares currently impacted.

In response, the Ministry of Public Works (PU) has deployed water tank trucks to provide 12,000 liters of water to assist firefighting teams and dampen high-risk areas. Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo stated that the ministry is utilizing all available infrastructure to protect the community and the environment. Authorities are also coordinating with police to secure nearby residential areas and preparing evacuation scenarios for nearby tourist destinations in case smoke or fire conditions worsen.