Government Closes Access to Bromo Amidst Ongoing Fire

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Vice Regent of Lumajang, Indah Amperawati Masdar, stated that the fire engulfing Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has not been extinguished until today, September 11, 2023. Meanwhile, the fire has burned over 100 hectares of the area and is likely to spread.

"I regret this occurrence of wildfire. The people ought to have been careful, extra careful since the drought brought no rain [to the area]," she said when met by Tempo today.

She hoped that the residents would ask for a permit before entering the protected forest area since negligence could have fatal consequences on the environment. "Since negligence caused the fire to engulf more than 100 hectares of land and will continue to spread since it's not been extinguished," she added.

Indah stressed that closing the access to TNBTS is a necessity. "To tightly guard the area so no one enters during this emergency period. The public has to abide by the prohibition," she said.

TNBTS total shutdown

TNBTS announced on Sunday evening about the total shutdown of access to enter or pass the national park. The shutdown began at 07:00 p.m. with an uncertain time limit.

The head of administration, Septi Eka Wardhani, mentioned that the total shutdown is intended to safeguard the extinction process and to ensure the visitors' safety. The access is closed from four points of entry, namely, Coban Trisula Malang Regency, Wonokitri Pasuruan Regency, Cemorolawang Probolinggo Regency, and Senduro Lumajang Regency.

The access is only open to the residents of Ranupani Village of Lumajang Regency and Ngadas Village of Malang Regency.

Septi also urged the public, visitors, and service providers to refrain from lighting a fire to ensure the safety and security of everyone and prevent wildfires from spreading. She also recommends everyone report hotspots inside TNBTS to available officers.

DAVID PRIYASIDHARTA

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