A FIRE that broke out in a secondary forest along hiking trails of Bukit Lipat Kajang in Taman Sri Andalas, Klang, is believed to be due to the heatwave.
Sri Andalas Fire and Rescue Department fire chief Mohd Hisam Mat Yasih said the hot and dry weather in Klang had dried out vegetation and increased the risk of wildfires.
“The fire along the hiking trails began at 11am on Sept 3.
“Our team of eight men put it out, but over the next two days, we had to return to the site as it was still smouldering in other spots,” he said.
Yesterday, Mohd Hisam had to return to Bukit Lipat Kajang with a team to deal with reignited embers.
The firefighters hosed down more of Bukit Lipat Kajang peak to halt the spread.
“Our firefighters acted swiftly to prevent the smouldering embers from spreading,” added Mohd Hisam.
Klang Royal City Council’s (MBDK) Quick Response Team (Pantas) with five men supported the operations in cutting down trees and removing burnt logs.
Mohd Hisam urged the public to refrain from open burning and to report any signs of fire immediately, to prevent the situation from worsening.
Klang’s Air Pollutant Index (API) reading yesterday was 70 at 12.30pm.
The secondary forest in Taman Sri Andalas is the central ecological feature of Bukit Lipat Kajang and is under the purview of MBDK.
The 32.7ha urban green lung was developed to protect and foster regeneration of its natural secondary forest while providing recreational spaces for the public.
The forest area provides a lush, shaded environment that acts as a natural cooling system, keeping the park refreshing in the early mornings and late evenings.
The hiking trails are highly popular and experiences its largest crowds on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Since the fire started, the trails have been off limits.
