BY LIZAWATI MADFA
SHAH ALAM, AUG 11: The Smart Selangor Command Centre (SSCC) has launched a monitoring operation and fire-fighting operation coordination at the Kuala Langat Utara and Raja Musa Forest Reserve, Kuala Selangor.
Head of Assistant Secretary, Disaster Management Unit (DMU), Ahmad Fairuz Mohd Yusof said, it includes size monitoring through satellite, air pollution index reading, climate radar, wind direction projection and coordinating communication between departments.
“The DMU uses two drones and three high-powered pumps to assist with site operation in affected areas.
“With SSCC, satellite information can also be coordinated and relayed quicker for monitoring activities to assume,” he said as reported by Smart Selangor Delivery Unit (SSDU).
Last August 3, the 100 hectares of Kuala Langat Utara Forest Reserve was reported to have caught fire and extinguishing activities on approximately 85 hectares is still underway.
Meanwhile, the 120 hectares Raja Musa Forest Reserve, Kuala Selangor was reportedly on fire since August 8 and there is still 10 hectares to be doused.
Ahmad said, DMU also carried out water bombing using Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency’s Bombardier aircraft, used high-powered pumps, tube well and excavators.
He said, the second operation in the burning area involved over 200 personnel.
“We are afraid the cause of fire could be due to human activities, in addition to the current southwest monsoon season, the fire spread more easily.
“The public need to be cautious in both areas and always take precautionary measures,” he said.
Since last August 1 when SSCC started operation, the DMU has coordinated integrated operations and 24-hours monitoring in both areas, involving over 60 agencies, departments and non-governmental institutions (NGO).
SSCC’s initial operation is focused on monitoring state’s assets such as traffic lights, road conditions, Smart Selangor busses, waste management, air pollution index and DMU operations.
