Friday, 01 May 2026
BATAM | INDATANEWS.COM ~ A severe wildfire broke out on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at around 3:30 PM in the Sungai Harapan Sanctuary near Sei Temiang Cemetery, Tanjung Riau Village, Sekupang District, Batam, Indonesia. The fire destroyed approximately two hectares of forest before police and firefighting teams managed to contain the blaze.
Residents reported the fire to local authorities, prompting officers from Polsek Sekupang and the Manggala Agni forest fire team to respond immediately.Read Also:
Police Chief Kompol Hippal Tua Sirait personally led the operation, supported by eight officers, eight Manggala Agni personnel, Kanit Intelkam Ipda Pebriadi, and Bhabinkamtibmas Aiptu Andi W. Two fire trucks were deployed to tackle the flames efficiently.
"Our teams worked alongside Manggala Agni personnel on-site to extinguish the fire. They continue to operate to prevent the fire from spreading to other forest areas," Kompol Hippal said. The teams arrived at the scene at 3:40 PM and immediately began firefighting efforts. Officers also managed traffic while supporting fire suppression activities.The operation faced several challenges, including hilly terrain that limited access, scarce water resources, and restricted pump and hose reach, Kompol Hippal added.
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Investigations into the wildfire's origin are ongoing. Initial reports suggest it may have been triggered by agricultural burning that spread into the sanctuary.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though roughly two hectares of forest were destroyed. Firefighters continue to monitor the area to prevent further spread."We urge the public not to open land through burning, as this can ignite forest fires, damage the environment, and put nearby residents at risk," Kompol Hippal warned.
The affected area is part of the Sungai Harapan Sanctuary, a critical forest reserve in Batam serving as a water catchment area and ecological buffer. This region is vital for maintaining the ecological balance in Sekupang and surrounding areas.
Batam is home to several other protected areas, including Bukit Dangas (128 ha), Bukit Tiban (1,770 ha), Sei Ladi (59.37 ha), and Batu Ampar (78.20 ha and 158.59 ha).Altogether, Batam's designated conservation areas cover approximately 2,933 hectares, playing an essential role in water absorption, environmental protection, and biodiversity preservation. (IDNC)
REPORTER:Darmailawati
