NORTH LOMBOK, Indonesia — A wildfire that broke out in the Bukit Setampol area within the Torean Resort of Mount Rinjani National Park (TNGR) has burned an estimated 589.23 hectares of land, prompt emergency responders to battle steep terrain and adverse weather conditions.
The fire was first reported on Tuesday evening, September 22, 2026, at approximately 6:50 PM WITA along the eastern side of Bukit Setampol, accessible via the Torean hiking trail.
Balai TNGR Sub-section Head of Administration Astekita Ardiaristo confirmed that initial suppression teams were formed immediately on Tuesday night, though containment efforts face severe geographical and logistical challenges:
- Extreme Terrain & Distance: Ground response teams face a six-hour trek to reach the active fire line, navigating dangerous cliffside terrain.
- Adverse Weather: Suppression operations are heavily hampered by dense fog and strong wind gusts across the mountain slopes.
- Trail Closure Enforced: Balai TNGR officially closed the Torean climbing route under Announcement No. PG.6/T.39/TU/KSA.04.01/B/09/2026 starting September 23, 2026, to protect public safety.
The Head of the NTB Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Sadimin, stated on Friday, September 25, 2026, that the cause of the fire remains under active investigation by law enforcement and park authorities.
