PPA ERT and PT SKS Collaborate for Rapid Forest and Land Fire Response in Central Kalimantan

The Emergency Response Team (ERT) of PT Putra Perkasa Abadi (PPA) Site SKS was deployed to respond to a forest and land fire (Karhutla) in Parempei Village, Rungan District, Gunung Mas Regency, Central Kalimantan, on Saturday (29/8).

The emergency response was conducted through a joint collaboration involving PT Putra Perkasa Abadi, PT Surya Kalimantan Sejati, and PT SKS Listrik Kalimantan, alongside local response units. Prior to extinguishing the flames, the team carried out an initial assessment to map affected areas, pinpoint hotspots, and evaluate access routes. Based on these findings, personnel targeted active hotspots using available resources and equipment. Once the fires were contained, the team performed cooling-down operations to secure the area and prevent reignition. All activities were executed under strict safety protocols to ensure personnel safety and environmental protection.

During the operation, the team encountered several field challenges, including water shortages due to dried-up rivers during the dry season, limited vehicle accessibility for water tender trucks, and complex terrain conditions. The presence of peatland required specialized suppression techniques and significantly higher volumes of water to ensure deep-seated fires were completely extinguished.

The team will remain on high alert throughout the dry season, in compliance with the Official Directive from the Director of Mineral and Coal Engineering and Environment / Chief Mine Inspector (Number B-4930/MB.07/DBT.KP/2026, issued May 20, 2026) regarding Enhanced Vigilance and Anticipation of Forest and Land Fire Risks in 2026.

According to data from the Central Kalimantan Provincial Health Office, cases of Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ISPA) in the region have reached approximately 66,000. Addressing this concern, Aditya Anggara, Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) Section Head at PPA Site SKS, urged the local community to maintain health precautions.

"All employees, their families, and residents living near our operational areas are advised to stay vigilant regarding air quality. Increasing hotspots directly impact air conditions. We hope the joint efforts of PPA ERT and PT SKS continue to support fire suppression efforts and safeguard public health," said Aditya.

As of Monday (31/8), the deployed ERT continues to monitor high-risk hotspots around the company’s operational perimeter, including nearby forest areas and residential zones, to prevent further spread.