JAKARTA: The Indonesian government began constructing canal blocks in Riau on Thursday (June 18) to prevent forest and land fires.
Environment Minister Moh. Jumhur Hidayat said the construction of canal blocks is a collective effort to maintain water balance in peatlands to reduce the risk of fires.
"A joint effort to retain water and build water-retaining barriers is part of efforts to address forest and land fires," he said.
He emphasised that dry peatlands exposed to sunlight carry a high risk of burning, making water management a key factor in fire prevention.
In addition, the government is promoting collaboration with local communities through strengthened water management and tree planting around canal areas to support environmental sustainability. - Xinhua
