Batam - Again, forest and land fires (Karhutla) occurred in Batam, Tuesday (2/3/2021) afternoon. This time, a fire broke out in a public cemetery for patients who died from Covid-19 in Sei Temiang, Sekupang District.

Public Relations of Manggala Agni Batam, Hermansyah, said the fire was spreading so fast. It could be seen that the flames were large enough to scorch the protected forest location. "Protected forest fires at the Covid 19 Sei Temiang cemetery," he said.

Several joint officers from the Indonesian National Police and the fire department were dispatched to extinguish the fire. The flames spread rapidly because of the strong winds and dry, flammable bushes.

"Officers are still trying to extinguish the fire," he said.

He ensured that the fire did not reach the burial place of the Covid 19 case. "It did not arrive, the Manggala Agni team and stakeholders swiftly extinguished the fire there," he said.

"Officers are still focused on extinguishing the fire at the location," he said.