Kubu Raya Police Intensifies Fire Extinguishment and Karhutla Patrol

PONTIANAK - The Kubu Raya Police together with a joint team for forest and land fire control (karhutla) have intensified the extinguishing and patrolling of hotspots in a number of vulnerable areas in Kubu Raya Regency, West Kalimantan, following the deterioration of air quality due to smoke haze.

"This step is coordinated with the TNI-Polri elements, local governments, and volunteers to suppress the expansion of the fire and protect residential areas," said Kasubsi Penmas of the Kubu Raya Police, Aiptu Ade in Sungai Raya, Tuesday.

Through the ranks of the Kubu Raya Police, the Police Chief Kadek Ary Mahardika stated that personnel in the field continued to carry out extinguishing, cooling of burned land, and routine patrols in areas prone to fire.

The areas that are the focus of patrol and handling include Sungai Raya, Sungai Kakap, Kuala Mandor B, Sungai Ambawang, and Rasau Jaya. This effort is carried out to prevent the fire from spreading to other vacant land or residential areas.

Air quality, fine particle levels (PM2.5) in Kubu Raya Regency were monitored at an unhealthy level and were risky for health, especially vulnerable groups.

"Smoke from forest and land fires can have serious health impacts. We urge the public to wear masks when going outside the house, reduce activities in open spaces, and maintain body condition," said Ade.