Supit Urang landfill fire spreads across 8 hectares in Malang

A major fire has broken out at the Supit Urang landfill in Malang, Indonesia, consuming approximately 8 hectares of the 32-hectare sanitary landfill area. The blaze, which has affected about 25 percent of the site, was reportedly triggered by residents burning waste nearby, with sparks being carried by strong winds during the dry season.

Firefighting efforts face significant challenges due to the presence of high-pressure methane gas trapped within the waste piles, which acts as a natural fuel. Additionally, the fire has penetrated deep into the trash mounds, making surface spraying ineffective. Authorities plan to use excavators to uncover the core of the fire and employ specialized injection methods following wind directions to manage the gas risk.

Local officials, including Deputy Mayor Ali Muthohirin, have coordinated with various agencies to accelerate the extinguishing process while ensuring the safety of volunteers and nearby residents from hazardous smoke. An investigation into the cause of the fire has been handed over to the Malang City Police.