Karhutla Kaltara Achieves 43 Cases until March 2026, Tarakan the Highest

PHOTO ISTIMEWA

TANJUNG SELOR - The number of forest and land fires (karhutla) in North Kalimantan Province (Kaltara) was recorded at 43 cases from January to March 2026.

The Head of the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Kaltara, Andi Amriampa, revealed that based on the monthly report data of the district/city BPBD, it showed a fluctuating trend, with the highest spike occurring in March.

"In January, 16 cases were recorded, then decreased to 10 cases in February, before again increasing significantly to 17 cases in March. This condition is a signal of the increasing potential for fires as the weather changes towards the dry season," said Amriampa, Tuesday, April 28.

Amri said, "In terms of territory, the City of Tarakan is an area with the highest number of cases, namely 20 cases or almost half of the total cases. Followed by Nunukan Regency with 16 cases. Meanwhile, Bulungan Regency recorded 4 cases, Tana Tidung 3 cases, and Malinau did not record any karhutla cases during that period. The increase in cases in March is a serious concern for all stakeholders.

"This trend must be watched together. We continue to encourage prevention efforts through integrated patrols, socialization to the community, and the readiness of personnel in vulnerable areas," said Amriampa.

He emphasized that the handling of forest fires could not only rely on the government, but also required the active role of the community at all levels.

"In an effort to reduce the risk of fire, we appeal to the public not to open land by burning and not to burn forests and land in any form," he said.

Amriampa also reminded the public not to throw cigarette butts carelessly, especially in vulnerable areas such as forests, gardens, and dry land, and to avoid burning garbage in open areas.

In addition, the public is asked to immediately report to the village officials, BPBD, or related agencies if they find a fire point or a fire incident. The active participation of the community is considered to be the key to preventing and controlling karhutla.

Amriampa also reminded that violations of the provisions on burning forests and land can be subject to criminal sanctions in accordance with Law Number 41 of 1999 concerning Forestry and Law Number 32 of 2009 concerning the Protection and Management of the Environment.

"This is a shared responsibility. Community compliance is very important to determine the success of preventing karhutla in Kaltara," he said.

The following is the BPBD data related to the spread of events during the first three months of 2026. Which shows a pattern of increase in certain areas.

In January, cases were spread in Nunukan and Tarakan with 6 cases each, as well as Tana Tidung and Bulungan with 2 cases each.

In February, the number of cases decreased with the details of Nunukan 5 cases, Tarakan 3 cases, and Tana Tidung and Bulungan each 1 case.

March, there was a significant spike, especially in Tarakan which recorded 11 cases, followed by Nunukan 5 cases and Bulungan 1 case, while other areas had no cases.