In brief
Wildfires in Kalimantan have released a thick, orange haze that has rolled across Palangka Raya, turning the skies a burnt‑orange hue. The Indonesian Environment Ministry reports the air quality index has surged to over 1,200 – four times the hazardous threshold. Health authorities warn that fine dust and toxic gases are choking residents, while emergency services monitor fire fronts that remain active. The haze has spill‑over effects, affecting air quality in neighboring Singapore and Malaysia, and drawing the attention of global environmental groups. Residents are urged to stay indoors, use air purifiers and follow official health advisories.
Residents of Palangka Raya, the capital of Central Kalimantan, have witnessed the sky turn a sky‑blacking orange. The thick smog, a product of expanding wildfires, now blankets the city and its surroundings.
According to the Ministry of Environment, the Environmental Protection Index has climbed above 1,200 – a value four times higher than the government‑defined hazardous level of 300. Citizens are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed and use air‑purifier devices where possible.
The haze threatens millions across the region, not only in Indonesia but also in Singapore and Malaysia, as smoke particles travel along prevailing trade winds. Health agencies warn of risks such as respiratory distress, eye irritation and cardiovascular strain.
The Dutch, Singaporean and Malaysian governments are monitoring the situation closely, while local environmental NGOs call for stronger enforcement against slash‑and‑burn practices that exacerbate the haze. International bodies have urged the Indonesian government to enforce stricter regulations on land‑clearing activities and to increase firefighting resources.
For those seeking live updates, BBC News has partnered with local broadcasters to stream ongoing footage of the haze. Follow the live stream and stay updated on this evolving story. Read more on BBC News.
