Air Quality in West Kalimantan Reaches Hazardous 'Black' Level Amidst Fires

Air quality in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, Indonesia, has deteriorated to a dangerous 'black' or hazardous level, according to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). As of Friday morning, August 21, the PM2.5 concentration reached 276µg/m³.

PM2.5 pollution, known for its small size that allows it to remain airborne for extended periods, is considered a major health threat. The elevated levels in Kubu Raya are strongly suspected to be a result of ongoing forest and land fires (karhutla), a recurring problem in the region due to its extensive peatland areas.

The Kubu Raya Regency government has activated its task force for forest and land fire prevention and management, extending efforts down to the village level. However, the air quality in other West Kalimantan regencies, such as Mempawah and Sintang, is also concerning, categorized as 'red' or very unhealthy.

Nationally, the Indonesian National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) reported 1,487 hotspots across Kalimantan as of Thursday, August 20. West Kalimantan alone accounted for 560 of these hotspots, with Central Kalimantan having the largest share at 767.