Access to Mount Bromo Shut Down as Firefighting Efforts Continue

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) has completely closed access to Mount Bromo to facilitate firefighting efforts in the area. The closure took effect at 10:00 p.m. local time (WIB) on Saturday.

TNBTS Head Rudijanta Tjahya Nugraha said in an official statement received in Malang, East Java, that the decision was made based on the situation on the ground, noting that the fire in the Bromo Caldera area was spreading.

Rudijanta said tourist visits to Mount Bromo through all entrance points had been suspended to ensure that firefighting operations could be carried out effectively.

Tourist access to Mount Bromo is available through five entry points located across four regencies: Cemorolawang in Probolinggo Regency, Wonokitri in Pasuruan Regency, Jemplang and Coban Trisula in Malang Regency, and Senduro in Lumajang Regency.

In addition to facilitating firefighting operations, the closure was also imposed to ensure the safety and security of visitors and other people in the area.

“The closure will remain in effect until further notice,” he said.

TNBTS said tourists who had purchased entrance tickets online for dates affected by the closure could reschedule their visits.

The TNBTS Authority is also offering visitors the option of receiving a refund.

Visitors must fill out a form available on the online booking website to request a refund or reschedule their visit.

Rudijanta urged all tourism service providers to temporarily suspend their activities within the TNBTS area.

“This is to ensure the safety and security of everyone,” he said.

A video posted by TNBTS on its official Instagram account shows flames burning along a cliff near the Tengger Caldera Ring Road.

In the video, an officer says the fire is moving toward Mount Kursi, which is located within the TNBTS area.

Source : https://en.tempo.co/read/2117027/mount-bromo-closed-to-tourists-as-firefighting-efforts-intensify?tracking_page_direct