"Based on Palangka Raya disaster agency data, particulate matter levels range from moderate to hazardous at certain times," city official Samsul Rizal said.
He noted that forest and land fires extend beyond environmental damage, with smoke threatening public health, worsening air quality, reducing visibility, and disrupting transportation.
In early August, thick haze blanketed Palangka Raya, driving air quality into the hazardous category, he said.
Much of Palangka Raya consists of peatland, requiring heightened vigilance because burning peat produces dense smoke and fires prove difficult to control, he added.
Rizal urged residents, businesses, customary leaders, community officials, and other stakeholders to protect the environment and immediately report fires or suspicious activities.
"The government cannot work alone. We need public awareness and participation to prevent fires early. Negligence or deliberate burning could have wider consequences," he said.
Data from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) showed Palangka Raya's air quality entered the hazardous category at 5 a.m. local time with PM levels reaching 258.9, rising to 290.2 at 6 a.m.
From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., air quality ranged from unhealthy to moderate, with PM levels fluctuating between 68.7 at 11 a.m. and 236.3 at 7 a.m.
The Palangka Raya Disaster Agency recorded 298 forest and land fires from June 1 through August 19, 2026.
The fires burned approximately 261.41 hectares across several subdistricts, Palangka Raya Disaster Agency Prevention and Preparedness Head Muhammad Heri Pauzi said.
"From June 1 to August 19, we recorded 298 forest and land fires covering 261.41 hectares, with most occurring in Jekan Raya, followed by Sabangau," Pauzi said.
Jekan Raya recorded the highest number of incidents at 188 fires, followed by Sabangau with 68, Pahandut with 25, and Bukit Batu with eight, while Rakumpit reported zero incidents.
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Translator: Rendhik A, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Arie Novarina
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