Jambi authorities consider school closures due to forest fire haze

The Jambi Provincial Government is considering issuing a circular to close schools due to unhealthy air quality caused by forest and land fires (karhutla). Governor Al Haris stated that current climate data has reached unhealthy thresholds, prompting the government to monitor the situation closely. Potential measures include mandatory mask usage and school holidays, particularly for early childhood education (PAUD) students.

According to the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), over 300 hectares of land have burned, with the largest fire affecting 50 hectares of peatland in Air Merah Village, Muaro Jambi Regency. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has prepared aircraft to support firefighting efforts through weather modification operations. Local police are investigating the causes of the fires and are urging the public to avoid clearing land through burning.