"Although North Sumatra is not classified as a priority area like South Sumatra, Jambi, and Riau due to the lack of peatland, the number of incidents and the extent of the fires are quite significant. This has become our concern," BNPB Head Suharyanto stated at a national coordination meeting on forest and land fire mitigation in Jakarta on Monday.
The agency confirmed that firefighting and mitigation efforts have been conducted, including Weather Modification Operations (OMC), which began three days ago.
However, the implementation of OMC in North Sumatra relies heavily on the presence of rain clouds, Suharyanto pointed out.
His side continues to coordinate with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to receive recommendations on the right time to seed potential clouds using salt (NaCl).
"Even if there is a potential for rain clouds at night, we will pursue them. If additional field equipment and/or patrol helicopters are needed, under the direction of the Minister of Forestry, we will do so while continuing our existing efforts," he emphasized.
According to the BNPB head, forest and land fire management requires synergy between the central and regional governments, law enforcement officials, and the community.
He stated that management measures will continue to be intensified as the peak of the dry season is expected within the next few weeks.
Furthermore, the agency is upbeat that legal action will be taken to deter individuals who intentionally set fires on agricultural or plantation land.
As reported by the Deputy Chief of the North Sumatra Regional Police during the meeting, 12 people have been named suspects, including two suspected of setting fires in mineral and forest areas.
Related news: VP updated on 51 detained Riau fire suspects
Related news: BNPB sends helicopters to help Jambi battle forest, land fires
Translator: M. Riezko Bima, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Arie Novarina
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
