In brief
A dense orange haze swallows Palangka Raya, turning daylight into a surreal twilight. Video footage shows the haze rolling over the Kalimantan province, closely following active wildfires that continue to blaze. The Indonesian Ministry of Environment’s Air Pollution Index spiked to over 1,200—four times the hazardous threshold—driving concerns over public health. Experts attribute the smog to slash‑and‑burn practices that are now compounding the intensity of the haze.
A dense orange smog has descended on Palangka Raya, the capital of Central Kalimantan. Video clips circulate showing the haze as it rolls across the city, closely following active wildfires in the surrounding region.
Indonesian officials report the Air Pollution Index (ISPU) has exceeded 1,200, four times the hazardous level of 300. The spike reflects the severe air quality crisis affecting millions in Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.
Analysts suspect the thick smog is intensified by malicious slash‑and‑burn agricultural practices, common in the area to clear land for plantations. The method releases large volumes of particulate matter, widening the haze’s reach.
Authorities urged residents to use masks and stay indoors. The crisis has also pushed environmental groups to call for stricter enforcement of fire regulations.
For further details, read the full story on BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/asia-65923145.