Fire at Indonesian Oil Depot Kills 17; Thousands Evacuated

JAKARTA, Indonesia—A large fire broke out at a fuel storage depot in Indonesia’s capital Friday, killing at least 17 people, injuring dozens of others and forcing the evacuation of thousands of nearby residents after spreading to their neighborhood, officials said.

Pertamina’s state-owned oil and gas company Pertamina operates the Plumpang fuel station. It is located in North Jakarta, near densely populated areas in Tanah Merah. This station supplies 25 percent of Indonesia’s fuel requirements.

Fire officials stated that at least 260 firefighters were needed to put out the fire in the neighborhood. 52 engines also had to be used.

The fire was broadcast live on TV and showed panicked scenes of hundreds of residents running from the flames. Firefighters battled to control the flames and thick clouds of orange smoke filled the skies.

Eko Kristawan, Pertamina’s regional manager, stated that a preliminary investigation revealed the cause of the fire was a ruptured pipeline during heavy rainfall.

He assured that there would be no disruption to the country’s fuel supply.

Heru Budi Hartono (Acting Jakarta Governor) stated that approximately 600 people had been displaced and were now being transferred to temporary shelters in several places.