Rompin Plantation Fire Still Burning Despite 85 Water-Bombing Runs

KUANTAN, March 29 — Firefighters are continuing efforts to extinguish a large-scale fire that has engulfed approximately 300 hectares of an oil palm plantation in Rompin, Pahang, as emergency crews intensify operations to contain the spreading blaze.

Authorities reported that nearly 60 hectares of the affected area had been successfully extinguished as of late yesterday, though large portions of the plantation remain burning. Firefighters have been working around the clock to control the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further across the plantation area.

According to operations officials from the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, aerial firefighting has played a critical role in the ongoing containment efforts. Helicopters from the department’s air unit have conducted 85 water-bombing runs, releasing around 68,000 litres of water over the burning area in an attempt to suppress the fire and reduce hotspots.

Emergency operations have been divided into several sectors to improve coordination among ground crews and aerial teams. Officials said the focus of the current operation is concentrated in sectors A and C, where firefighters are battling active flames using both aerial water drops and ground-based firefighting equipment.

Meanwhile, other sections of the affected plantation, including sectors B and D, have reportedly been brought under control. Firefighters remain cautiously optimistic that the blaze can be fully extinguished within the coming days if weather conditions remain stable and firefighting operations continue as planned.

The fire has also raised environmental concerns, particularly regarding air quality in the Rompin district. Data from Malaysia’s Air Pollutant Index monitoring system recorded an API reading of 152, placing the area within the unhealthy air quality category. Authorities are now investigating whether the plantation fire directly contributed to the spike in pollution levels or if other environmental factors played a role.

Officials from the Department of Environment have said further assessments will be carried out to determine the exact cause of the elevated air pollution levels while monitoring the situation closely to protect public health.

Large plantation fires can spread rapidly due to dry vegetation and strong winds, making them difficult to control once they cover large areas. As a result, firefighting teams often rely on a combination of aerial water-bombing operations, firebreak construction, and ground suppression methods to stop the flames from advancing.

Authorities have urged nearby communities to remain cautious and stay informed about air quality conditions while firefighting operations continue. Residents have also been advised to reduce outdoor activities if pollution levels worsen.

The incident highlights the challenges faced by firefighting agencies when dealing with large-scale land and plantation fires, particularly during dry weather periods when vegetation becomes highly flammable. Emergency crews are expected to remain on site until the entire area is declared safe and the blaze has been fully extinguished.