A massive fire destroyed 120 traditional houses at the Sade Tourism Village in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, according to local disaster management officials. The blaze swept rapidly through the densely packed settlement known for its authentic Sasak architecture, leaving dozens of families displaced and drawing an urgent response from regional authorities.
Emergency Response and Containment Efforts
Local fire crews and disaster management teams rushed to the scene as flames engulfed the thatched-roof structures characteristic of the traditional village. According to the West Nusa Tenggara Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), firefighters battled the blaze for hours before bringing it under control, preventing the fire from spreading to adjacent residential zones within the cultural hub.
The swift movement of the fire was fueled by the dry materials used in traditional Sasak construction, notably bamboo and woven grass roofs. Officials on the ground coordinated immediate relief efforts, setting up temporary shelters and distributing emergency food supplies to the affected residents who lost their homes.
Impact on Cultural Heritage and Tourism
Sade Village functions as a living museum for the indigenous Sasak people, drawing international and domestic tourists eager to experience traditional weaving, architecture, and daily village life. According to local tourism representatives, the destruction of 120 traditional houses represents a severe blow to the community’s cultural infrastructure and local economy.
While structural assessments remain ongoing, regional tourism boards are working to secure rebuilding funds. Authorities have emphasized that recovery efforts will focus on restoring the homes using authentic materials to preserve the historical integrity that defines the destination.
Investigation Into the Cause of the Blaze
Local law enforcement and disaster investigators initiated a formal inquiry to determine the exact origin of the fire. According to preliminary reports from local police, forensic teams are examining electrical fault lines and open-flame cooking sources within the affected sector of the village. Officials have urged visitors and residents to avoid the cordoned-off zones while cleanup and investigation protocols proceed.
Keep reading