Batam - High temperatures and strong winds from January to April 2013 may trigger bush and forest fires in Batam, an official has said. "At least 50 hectares of forests in Batam are burnt every year. Burning of forests happens between January and April every year when the weather is dry and warm," local Fire Threat Mitigation Directorate of Superintendence Board spokesman Gunadi said here on Wednesday. He said people burn trees in protected forests, conservation areas, and vacant lands in Batam, including the Hang Nadim International Airport. "Bush fires are caused by droughts and human activities. Many people are careless; they throw used cigarettes and build bonfires in dry areas," added Gunadi. According to him, the protected forest in Sei-Ladi, Baloi, Lubuk Raja of Batam, had once caught fire too. He has urged the people of Batam not to litter during the dry season as it can lead to forest fires. Several officers will close the lake of Sei-Ladi to prevent forest fires. "The Natural Resources Conservation Agency of Riau is monitoring the area. The Sei-Ladi Lake has become a water reservoir. So, we should maintain the forest to ensure that there is sufficient water in the city," said Gunadi. (*)


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