Palangka Raya air quality reaches dangerous levels due to forest fires

Forest and land fires in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, have caused severe environmental and social impacts. The Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLH) reported that air quality in Palangka Raya reached a dangerous level, with the Air Pollution Standard Index (ISPU) hitting 1,010 due to PM2.5 pollutants.

The fires have resulted in significant property damage, including 12 residential homes being destroyed. The Palangka Raya city government has allocated 180 million IDR in rehabilitation funds, providing 15 million IDR to each affected household. Additionally, public infrastructure such as traffic signs and street lighting networks have been damaged by the flames.

Local disaster management agencies (BPBD) have detected multiple fire hotspots in areas including Petuk Bukit and Kalampangan. Low rainfall is currently hindering full suppression efforts. Authorities have advised vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, to avoid outdoor activities due to the hazardous smoke.