Mongabay · Climate & nature

Wildfires Reach Outskirts of Indonesia's New Capital, Nusantara

Fires have broken out within the administrative area of Indonesia's new capital city, Nusantara, on Borneo. While not threatening core construction sites, the blazes highlight a worsening environmental and health crisis across the country, intensified by El Niño.

The fires, in mid-September, were 30-40 km from government buildings in Nusantara's outer zones. Officials confirmed they stopped short of the main construction site, vowing increased patrols.

Senior officials visited the fire sites on September 14th. Satellite data showed a surge in fire activity compared to 2019, a severe wildfire year.

Across Indonesia, fires are linked to wildlife deaths and rising respiratory illnesses. El Niño has intensified the blazes, often used for land clearing but burning uncontrollably in drained peatlands.

The crisis challenges building Nusantara, Indonesia's new capital, on Borneo, an area with ecological damage from peatland drainage for plantations.

Air quality is a concern, with PM2.5 levels in Central Kalimantan exceeding WHO recommendations by over 40 times. This pollution poses health risks, especially to vulnerable groups.

Communities near Nusantara report anxieties over air pollution. Balikpapan saw a nearly 20% increase in respiratory diagnoses in August, though a direct link to fires is cautioned.

Disaster officials prepare for more fires by stockpiling masks. Concerns remain for outdoor workers facing health risks but needing income.

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