Jakarta. The government has quickly deployed a team of hundreds of firefighters amidst the increasing threat of forest fires in Riau.

Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurrofiq deployed as many as 200 firefighters to fire-prone areas, particularly in Rokan Hilir and Rokan Hulu regencies.

"We can't wait any longer. Prevention must be the top priority. Once a fire has already broken out, ground firefighting is the front line, especially in peatlands, which require a special technical approach," Hanif was quoted as saying in a press statement.

As of Wednesday, fire is still actively burning in peat and mineral areas in Rokan Hilir and Rokan Hulu. If not addressed immediately, this might lead to widespread wildfire smoke.

The climatology agency BMKG reported an increase in hotspots in Riau between July 23 and 27. This might persist until early next month, thus prompting the need to dispatch on-site firefighters.

The firefighting effort aligns with Indonesia’s effort to cut emissions as stated in the enhanced nationally determined contribution (NDC) document.

Indonesia aims to reduce 31.89 percent unconditionally, but will raise the target to 43.2 percent with international support by 2030. The country has aimed to reach net zero emissions by 2060.

Minister Hanif highlighted the strengthening of early detection systems and field patrols. He also called for collaboration between the central and sub-national governments, the military and police force, the community, as well as the private sector.

Some of the attendees at the roll call included the Riau Governor, the Environment Ministry’s top brass, and representatives from business stakeholders: APP Sinar Mas, RAPP, Musim Mas, Perkebunan Nusantara IV Regional 3, and Pertamina Hulu Rokan.

The team combines government personnel and emergency response units from partner companies. There will be more firefighting teams to be dispatched.

"This is not the last group. The next team will be sent. We must be present until the last fire is extinguished. We must not leave until it is extinguished. Riau must be free of haze," Hanif said.

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