In the aftermath of a fire at the Mandung Landfill, Tabanan Regency declared a local state of emergency this week.
On Thursday, 19 October 2023 Acting Bali Governor Sang Made Mahendra Jaya declared a 14-day state of emergency across the entire island of Bali. The state of emergency was announced in response to ongoing fires at the landfill and in the forests, with the most significant concern being the widespread drought affecting the island.
“Considering the current situation, to protect the community, enhance preparedness, and ease access, we agree to declare a 14-day state of emergency starting today,” Acting Governor Jaya stated during a management coordination meeting in Denpasar on Thursday.
This state of emergency will allow for the allocation of funds and resources to emergency teams across the island, making it more effective to distribute aid to those most affected by the fires and drought.
“This state of emergency is the lowest escalation as per the law, making our movement and access in responding to the disaster more flexible, including providing support space,” Acting Governor Jaya emphasised.
Lieutenant General Suharyanto, Head of Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency, explained that this request would be carefully considered, noting that drought and fires are also causing damage in various other parts of the country.
He mentioned that there are only five privately funded aircraft available for firefighting, all currently deployed in Sumatra and Kalimantan. Once they become available, these aircraft will be sent to Bali.
Before the clarification, a tourist posted photos of flames in the dark on Bali Bogans, a popular Facebook group for Bali lovers, and asked if it was a volcanic eruption or a fire.
The group quickly responded to the question, assuring everyone that Mount Agung remains dormant after its last eruption in 2019. The 2019 eruption had a significant impact on local communities and tourists, causing flight cancellations and changes at Bali’s only international airport.
Notice released for tourists around East Bali
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Tourists should prepare for lower air quality than usual in Bali in the coming weeks. Although the fires have been contained, many areas still face the risk of fires in the weeks ahead.
Tourists visiting East Bali, especially around resorts like Amed, may be asked by their hosts to conserve water during showers.
If you plan to travel to areas that have been affected by the fires, please allow extra time for travel in case of road closures or detours. This particularly applies to areas around Mount Batur and Mount Agung.
Those with respiratory sensitivities are advised to wear masks outdoors, and tourists are encouraged to monitor air quality readings and adjust their activities based on their individual risk assessments.
In a separate statement, Denpasar Police Chief, AA Ngurah Bawa Nendra, has temporarily banned the use of lasers to disperse clouds.
In a written statement, he shared, “To business operators and the community, please temporarily stop using laser lights/spotlights that function to disperse clouds or stop rain for religious/customary ceremonies, weddings, events, and other activities.”
This state of emergency will be in effect for 14 days, allowing the provincial government to utilise additional resources and funding. Further updates will be provided in the coming days.
As of now, Acting Governor Jaya has not issued guidelines suggesting changes to daily activities, although the situation remains under observation.
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