Perum Perhutani Forest Management Unit (KPH) Lawu Ds has taken tactical steps to anticipate the threat of forest and land fires (karhutla) in the Mount Lawu area. This mitigation effort is realized by building a 4.5-kilometer-long firebreak (ilaran) along the Cemoro Sewu climbing route, Magetan Regency.
The creation of this fire barrier is focused on three strategic points to accelerate the clearing of vegetation that has the potential to spread fire in the event of a blaze. In its implementation, Perhutani is working in synergy with the Fire Care Community (MPA), the TNI/Polri, BPBD, and local community elements.
Deputy Administrator of KPH Lawu Ds, Hermawan, explained that this preventive action is crucial given that this year's dry season is projected to last longer. The bitter experience of the major forest fires in 2023 serves as an important evaluation tool for his team.
Last year's fires not only damaged the forest ecosystem's sustainability but also burned down the clean water pipeline network carrying water from mountain springs to residential areas. Therefore, current security measures are focused on protecting vegetation as well as safeguarding vital community infrastructure.
In addition to physically building the firebreak, Perhutani is also tightening supervision over hikers' activities. Tourists are strongly urged not to light fires or trigger potential fire hazards, especially in pine forest areas that are highly vulnerable when dry.
