Forest fires rage in Palangka Raya; flights canceled due to haze

Central Kalimantan's Palangka Raya has been battling a significant number of forest and land fires, with 298 incidents recorded from June 1 to August 19, 2026. These fires have collectively consumed approximately 261.41 hectares across various districts.

Heri Fauzi, Head of Prevention and Preparedness at the Palangka Raya City Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), stated that the Jekan Raya district experienced the most fires, with 188 cases, while the Sabangau district followed with 68. Other districts like Pahandut and Bukit Batu also reported incidents, though fewer.

The thick haze resulting from these fires has directly impacted air travel. Flights to and from the Haji Muhammad Sidik Airport in Muara Teweh, North Barito Regency, were canceled for two consecutive days. Muhammad Amrillah, the airport head, explained that the required visibility for safe landings is over 5,000 meters, but current conditions only offer about 1,000 meters.

This disruption has forced some passengers to seek alternative, longer travel routes via land, a journey that can take between 9 to 13 hours. Airport authorities hope for improved weather conditions to resume normal flight operations.