Firefighters intensify aerial water-bombing in Tatau as peat fire spreads, nears plantation areas

Firefighters deploying 'water bombing' operations to contain the bush fire in Kuala Tatau-Serupai, Tatau on March 26, 2026. Photo credit: Bomba

by DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, March 26: Firefighters have turned to aerial water-bombing to battle a bushfire in Kuala Tatau-Serupai, Tatau, as the fire continues to spread across eight hectares of land, threatening nearby plantation areas.

According to the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), as at 2pm today, the Miri Fire Air Unit has conducted 30 water-bombing sorties, drawing water directly from the sea to douse the flames.

Peat fire along Jalan Kuala Tatau on March 26, 2026. Photo credit: Bomba

The fire, which started on Monday, March 23, 2026, has now expanded to approximately eight hectares, while ground crews have successfully contained three hectares of the blaze so far.

Firefighting efforts involved both ground and aerial units. BBP Tatau deployed 11 personnel with LFRT, TRITON, and Land Rover vehicles, while the Miri Fire Air Unit sent 14 personnel with a Mi-171 helicopter.

Firefighters board a Mi-171 helicopter to carry out water-bombing operations against the spreading Tatau peat fire on March 26, 2026. Photo credit: Bomba

The water-bombing operations have been carried out by firefighters from the Miri Fire and Rescue Department Air Unit to control the fire, particularly in areas with limited water sources. – DayakDaily