Mount Bromo forest fires met with water-bombing helicopters

Indonesian Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has deployed water-bombing helicopters to combat forest fires on the slopes of Mount Bromo in East Java. The aerial operation is specifically targeting steep areas that are inaccessible to ground teams.

Three helicopters have been operational for two days, with a target of 30 water-bombing missions, 17 of which have already been completed. However, officials noted that progress remains highly dependent on weather conditions, particularly high wind speeds, which have caused the fire to jump across terrain.

In addition to aerial efforts, ground teams are working to create a six-kilometer firebreak to prevent further spread. An incident commander has also been appointed to better coordinate the various firefighting efforts and challenges on the ground.