Jakarta Fortifies Fire Mitigation at Bantargebang Landfill Ahead of Dry Season

The Jakarta Environmental Agency is fortifying fire prevention measures at Bantargebang Landfill ahead of the dry season.

We must stay ahead of the dry season

To combat the heightened risk of fire hotspots triggered by the heat, a comprehensive, multi-layered defense—from strict monitoring to rapid emergency response—is now in full effect.

Jakarta Environmental Agency Head, Dudi Gardesi Asikin highlighted the early proactive steps taken to keep Bantargebang Landfill safe and maintain steady waste services for the community.

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“We must stay ahead of the dry season, particularly in the landfill area. We’ve strengthened our defense on all fronts: preventing hotspots, prepping our team and machinery, and streamlining cross-agency coordination for a rapid response to any emerging risks,” he explained, Tuesday (7/7).

He noted that the Environmental Agency's Integrated Waste Management Unit has established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for fire, landslide, and flood mitigation within the Bantargebang Landfill area.

These SOPs serve as a primary reference for personnel in executing prevention, preparedness, and emergency response measures.

Additionally, the Integrated Waste Management Unit (UPST) held a Fire Disaster Preparedness Roll Call at Bantargebang Landfill on Friday (7/19), as part of its efforts to bolster readiness.

"The assembly served as a consolidation moment for our personnel while providing a vital check on the readiness of our on-site infrastructure and equipment," he added.

Dudi explained that the Environmental Agency is implementing several direct field measures, including "stripping" or leveling dried-out landfill plots, clearing dry vegetation in disposal zones, and conducting routine patrols.

He added that monitoring is carried out both on-site and via drone technology to assist in mapping high-risk zones and ensuring the early detection of potential fire hotspots.

Further, oversight of activities at Bantargebang Landfill has been intensified. The UPST has prohibited all forms of waste burning within the landfill and its vicinity, ramped up awareness campaigns for personnel and locals, and installed 'No Smoking' banners. A strict smoking ban is now in effect for waste pickers, drivers, and staff, while access for unauthorized parties has been restricted.

“We're controlling risks at the source. This means no trash burning, strictly monitored no-smoking areas, and restricted access for unauthorized visitors. We are putting the safety of our staff, the public, and our operational continuity first,” he remarked.