Indonesian authorities: Tuesday ordered the closure of scores of schools for a second day as firefighters continued to battle wildfires in several parts of the country for a ninth consecutive day, local media reported. The fires have caused significant disruption, prompting the government to take emergency measures in affected regions.

According to Anadolu Agency, the fire that broke out on August 3 burned around 742 hectares (1,833 acres) of land at Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java. The spreading haze from wildfires has been plaguing the archipelago at the start of a long and intense dry season. The park, which is a major tourist attraction, remains closed to visitors until further notice. Additionally, Mount Bromo in East Java has also been temporarily closed to tourists following the wildfire that has been burning in the national park.

Authorities have moved students to online learning in Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, which Indonesia shares with Malaysia and Brunei. This measure is set to continue for as long as the air quality remains poor, ensuring the safety of students and staff. Nearly 50,000 firefighters and disaster personnel, supported by dozens of helicopters, are currently engaged in battling wildfires across several provinces in the country.