Johor fire department reports 50% of Sungai Kapal peatland blaze is extinguished, with nearly 50 hectares controlled amid challenging dry conditions.
KOTA TINGGI: Firefighting operations have brought half of a significant peatland fire in Sungai Kapal under control.
The Johor State Fire and Rescue Department reported the blaze, which began last Friday, was 50% contained as of 7 pm.
Approximately 49.8 hectares of the affected 99.55-hectare area have been extinguished, with no casualties reported.
The department stated dry, windy weather caused the fire to spread rapidly, sending thick smoke into the nearby Taman Bayu Damai residential area.
A drone unit has been deployed to assess the fire’s spread rate and the challenging terrain.
Operations face difficulties due to limited water sources and poor access routes to the remote fire site.
An excavator is being used to create fire breaks in an effort to contain the blaze further.
The extinguishing work is being conducted in stages across two main sectors.
A total of 26 fire personnel are involved in the ongoing operation.
They are supported by a Fire Rescue Tender, a Hilux, a hydrosub, and a three-tonne lorry.
The effort involves cooperation from multiple agencies including the police, Civil Defence Force, and the Department of Environment.
Johor JBPM deputy director Assistant Fire Commissioner Muhammad Al Mustakim Abdul Hady is overseeing the operation.
He stated efforts will continue until the fire is completely extinguished.
