Haze Blankets Palangka Raya as Forest Fires Worsen Air Quality

A thick haze has enveloped Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, as forest and land fires continue to rage in several areas. The persistent smoke has significantly degraded air quality, raising health concerns among residents.

Data from the Palangka Raya Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) indicates that as of July 26, 2026, the fires had scorched approximately 54.44 hectares across 109 incidents. Emergency personnel are actively engaged in firefighting and monitoring hotspots to prevent further spread, especially during the dry season.

The poor air quality poses a significant risk to public health, with children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses being particularly vulnerable. Commercial flights at Tjilik Riwut Airport are proceeding amidst the smog, highlighting the pervasive impact of the fires on daily life and transportation.

Authorities continue their efforts to combat the fires and mitigate their impact, but the situation underscores the ongoing challenges of managing land fires and their environmental consequences in the region.