Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Environment has sealed off approximately 200 hectares of burned land in Kubu Raya District, West Kalimantan, following fires that led to an increase in hotspots and deteriorating air quality.

"This is part of our commitment to uphold the law against businesses that neglect their obligations to control air pollution. We will continue to take firm action against similar violations in other regions," said the ministry's Deputy for Law Enforcement, Rizal Irawan, on Monday.

The sealing was carried out at two locations: Pematang Tujuh Village in Rasau Jaya Sub-district and Punggur Besar Village in Sungai Kakap Sub-district.

The operation was led by Irawan and accompanied by the Director of Environmental Complaints and Monitoring, Ardyanto Nugroho; the Kubu Raya Police Chief; the Kalimantan Manggala Agni; the Rasau Jaya Military District Commander; and representatives from the West Kalimantan Provincial Environmental Agency.

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Irawan explained that the sealing was based on strong indications of land clearing by burning, a violation of environmental law.

The ministry emphasized that this measure is part of the government’s broader effort to take firm action against companies that fail to fulfill their responsibilities in air pollution control and fire prevention.

According to reports, the fire was first detected on July 26, with extinguishing efforts continuing until August 2, aided in part by rainfall.

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Nugroho added that the legal process concerning the alleged land burning would be handed over to the West Kalimantan Regional Police.

The government also reminded all companies to remain vigilant during the dry season and ensure full readiness in their fire prevention and control systems, including adequate personnel and infrastructure.

"We urge all companies to properly implement their fire control obligations. When a fire occurs, we do not just evaluate the scene—we assess the company’s prior commitments and preventive actions," he emphasized.



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Translator: Pricsa Triferna, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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