"According to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predictions, the emergency status declared in Riau Province should be in effect until November or December 2025," Gunawan remarked after holding a meeting here on Tuesday.
He outlined several reasons for designating Riau Province as being under a forest and land fire disaster emergency status until the end of the year.
One factor is that the area burned in Riau has reached 81 hectares so far, the highest compared to other fire-prone provinces such as Aceh, Jambi, and Central Kalimantan.
Moreover, BMKG data shows that the Riau region can experience two dry seasons yearly.
This situation causes the forest and plantation areas in Riau to dry up, increasing their vulnerability to fires.
Related news: Indonesia intensifies forest fire control in disaster alert areas
Minister Gunawan said his side has prepared various measures to mitigate forest and land fires in Riau.
One of the measures is conducting weather modification operations starting May 1, 2025.
"Weather modification to induce rain will start on May 1, along with water bombing, helicopter patrols, filling ponds, water canals, and maintaining high water levels in peatlands," he stated.
Gunawan also mentioned that his side will collaborate with local governments and law enforcement personnel to monitor individuals suspected of intentionally setting fires for land clearing.
Gunawan remarked that these preventive measures will continue until the forest and land fire emergency status in Riau Province is lifted.
Related news: Collaboration crucial to deal with Indonesia's forest fires: ministry
Translator: Walda, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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