A major forest fire on a hill in Tanjung Bungah has been brought under control after a challenging firefighting operation, with no casualties reported.
GEORGE TOWN: Firefighters have successfully contained a forest fire covering over 12,000 square metres on a hill in Tanjung Bungah.
The Penang Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 3.59 pm today regarding the blaze behind Surin Residence.
Assistant director John Sagun Francis said the fire location was about two kilometres from the foot of the hill and inaccessible by vehicle.
READ MORE: Forest fire erupts on hilltop near Taman Tun Abdul Razak apartments
Firefighters had to hike to the scene while carrying their equipment to begin the operation.
The operation was divided into two sectors, utilising the “fire beater” method and constructing a “fire break” to prevent further spread.
By 7.12 pm, the fire was successfully brought under control.
As of 8.30 pm, no casualties had been reported from the incident.
Control and extinguishing operations are still ongoing at the site.
The department’s drone unit is also on standby to provide aerial monitoring if required.
