IPOH: Firefighters are still battling a forest fire which has engulfed in Gerik, Perak as operations are being hindered by terrain and the lack of air units, which have been deployed to Pahang.

       Perak Fire and Rescue Department assistant director of operations Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said although the fire is still burning, the situation is under control.

       "The fire has been burning since Sunday (April 7) and operations are still ongoing involving firefighters from the Kinta, Kerian, Larut Matang, Selama and Gerik districts.

       "The remaining fire covers approximately one hectare at several locations where there are still flames and smoke," he said on Tuesday (April 9).

       Sabarodzi said the firefighting process takes some time due to the porous soil structure and many fallen trees blocking the passage.

       "This makes it difficult for our four-wheel drive vehicles to get to the burning areas and air units (helicopters) are involved in forest fire operations in Pahang," he said. – Bernama