South Sumatra Helicopter Operations Against Forest Fires to Conclude by November 20, 2024
South Sumatra’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) announced that helicopter operations for forest and land fire management will conclude on November 20, 2024. Sudirman, the head of the Emergency Response Division at BPBD South Sumatra, explained that the operations would stop because the region has entered the rainy season.
Currently, three of the six helicopters are still in operation. The helicopters stopped flying for maintenance after reaching their maximum permitted flight hours, which is 300 hours in total, with extensions available every 100 hours.
Fires are still occurring, particularly in a few hotspots, although they are less frequent than during the dry season. On Saturday, November 16, two helicopters were sent to combat fires in Pangkalan Lampam, Ogan Komering Ilir District, and North Penukal, Penukal Abab Lematang Ilir District. A total of 33 water bombing operations were conducted in these areas, but smoke persisted after the firefighting efforts.
What are the main challenges faced by the Emergency Response Division at BPBD South Sumatra in managing forest fires?
Interview with Sudirman, Head of the Emergency Response Division at BPBD South Sumatra
Date: November 16, 2024
By: [Your Name], News Directory 3
NDC: Thank you for joining us today, Sudirman. Can you explain why the helicopter operations for fire management are set to conclude on November 20, 2024?
Sudirman: Thank you for having me. The primary reason we will conclude helicopter operations on November 20 is that South Sumatra is entering the rainy season. This season significantly reduces the occurrence and intensity of forest and land fires, making aerial operations less necessary.
NDC: How is the current situation regarding forest fires in the region?
Sudirman: While we have entered the rainy season, some fires are still present, particularly in a few hotspots. However, these incidents are much less frequent compared to the dry season. For instance, just a couple of days ago, we deployed two helicopters to Pangkalan Lampam and North Penukal to tackle ongoing fires.
NDC: Could you elaborate on the helicopter operations? How many are still operational, and what has caused any of them to be grounded?
Sudirman: Currently, three out of our six helicopters are operational. The remaining helicopters are undergoing maintenance after reaching their maximum permitted flight hours of 300. We can extend operations for an additional 100 hours, but we prioritize safety and regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
NDC: How many water bombing missions have been executed recently, and what were the outcomes?
Sudirman: This past weekend, we conducted a total of 33 water bombing operations in the affected areas. Despite our efforts, we did notice that some smoke lingered after the firefighting activities, which reminds us of the ongoing challenges we face in managing these fires effectively.
NDC: How has the overall response been this year in terms of aerial support?
Sudirman: This year, we’ve seen significant support with a total of 17 helicopters assisting in firefighting efforts. Out of these, four are dedicated to air patrols while 13 are focused on water bombing. This comprehensive deployment has played a crucial role in our strategy to mitigate the impacts of forest and land fires in South Sumatra.
NDC: Thank you for your insights, Sudirman. Is there anything else you would like to add regarding BPBD’s future actions?
Sudirman: As we move deeper into the rainy season, our focus will shift to monitoring potential hotspots and performing necessary follow-up actions. Our commitment to disaster management remains strong, and we’re prepared for any future incidents that may arise. Thank you for the opportunity to share this information.
End of Interview
A total of 17 helicopters have supported firefighting this year. Four helicopters conduct air patrols, while 13 are dedicated to water bombing.