BNPB's Strategy for Addressing Karhutla in Way Kambas National Park

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Acting Head of the Data, Information, and Disaster Communication Center at the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Berton SP Panjaitan, revealed several strategies for addressing forest and land fires (Karhutla) in Way Kambas National Park, Lampung.

"Certainly, there are several strategies for managing Karhutla in Way Kambas National Park, which require dividing personnel based on operational areas," Berton said at a press conference on Monday (26/10/2026).

Berton explained that one of the strategies involves allocating personnel according to operational regions and fire hotspots.

For instance, if several fire hotspots expand, the number of personnel will be increased.

"We also prioritize the safety of all personnel by preparing various equipment and ensuring a supply of drinking water to prevent dehydration among the team," he added.

Another strategy is to strengthen monitoring of fire hotspots and community reporting.

In addition, expanding extinguishing efforts with effective equipment is also a critical step in countering the fires, alongside providing water pumps.

"Furthermore, we will integrate aerial monitoring and information from the ground," he noted.

When extinguishing the fire is deemed too challenging from the ground, aerial operations will be conducted using helicopters.

Karhutla in Sumatra

Aside from Way Kambas National Park, Berton also discussed fire management efforts in several areas across Sumatra.

Data from October 25, 2026, indicates that the total area still being addressed for forest and land fires is 990 hectares.

The largest area is in South Sumatra with 889 hectares, followed by Jambi with 89 hectares, and Lampung with 12 hectares.

"We need to emphasize that our focus on Riau has shifted and is no longer a priority because natural rainfall there has significantly increased, leading to the extinguishing of many burning areas," he concluded.