Indonesia Deploys Water-Bombing Helicopters to Fight Spreading Landfill Fire

A significant fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang, Indonesia, continues to rage on its second day, with flames spreading across a considerable area. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has escalated its response, announcing the deployment of water-bombing helicopters to help extinguish the persistent blaze.

BNPB Head Lt. Gen. TNI Suharyanto stated that the firefighting efforts are hampered by the nature of the burning material, which consists primarily of waste and other flammable substances. The height of the burning trash piles also makes it difficult for ground crews to access the fire effectively. Strong winds and hot weather conditions are exacerbating the situation, causing the fire to spread rapidly in various directions.

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The firefighting process is experiencing difficulties because the burning material is dominated by waste and flammable materials.

To combat the inferno, two MI-8AMT helicopters, each capable of carrying 4,000 liters of water, have been dispatched to Tangerang. These helicopters were previously involved in forest and land fire suppression in Jambi. Ground operations are also ongoing, with 10 fire engines from various agencies working to contain the fire within accessible areas. The fire has impacted an estimated 15 hectares of the 31-33 hectare landfill.

The impact of the fire extends to the local community, with 15 individuals from five families evacuated to the Tanjakan Mekar Village Hall due to the thick smoke. Health teams are on standby, and masks have been distributed to mitigate potential health risks. Despite the fire's proximity to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, flight operations remain unaffected.

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We are bringing in two water bombing helicopters and will conduct weather modification operations if necessary.