Indonesia intensifies forest fire prevention via patrols and weather modification

Indonesian authorities are intensifying efforts to prevent forest and land fires (karhutla) as the dry season progresses. In West Java, the Forestry Service has increased field patrols and is coordinating across sectors to monitor forest cover and mitigate risks. Officials have urged the public to avoid land clearing through burning and to report any fire indications immediately.

At the national level, the Ministry of Forestry is implementing Weather Modification Operations (OMC) to stimulate cloud growth and prevent fires. This operation is being coordinated with BMKG to optimize timing based on cloud potential. The primary focus for these operations is West Kalimantan and Central Kalimantan, which have seen a significant rise in hotspots and smoke distribution. Data indicates that hotspots in West Kalimantan increased from 98 to 136, while Central Kalimantan saw an increase from 29 to 78.