Kemenhut clears 88 hectares of illegal palm oil in SM Lamandau
11,180 palm trees were cut down and 28 work huts were demolished as 43 occupants stopped activity to clear the way for peatland restoration.
Kementerian Kehutanan cleared 88 hectares of illegal palm oil plantations in Suaka Margasatwa Lamandau, Central Kalimantan, cutting down 11,180 palm trees and demolishing 28 work huts. The operation followed the voluntary decision of 43 parties that controlled and used the conservation area to stop their activities. The enforcement involved TNI, Polri, the prosecutor's office, the Sukamara Regency Government, BKSDA Kalteng, as well as local residents and traditional leaders. Kemenhut said ending the illegal plantations is needed so restoration of the peat ecosystem in SM Lamandau can proceed and the risk of repeated fires can be reduced. The next phase will be revegetation with native species, while any continuing violations will be handled through legal action.