By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Aug 21: Flexible approaches are needed to prevent peat fires from recurring, says a peat soil scientist.
Infact, growing short-term crops like pineapple might offer a viable long-term solution to curb peat fires in Kuala Baram, opined Sarawak Tropical Peat Research Institute director Dr Lulie Melling, noting that peat soil is rich in nutients but flammable when dry.
“It (planting on peat soil) is one of the best management pratices,” she said.
Dr Lulie said this after visiting a peat soil area in Kuala Baram which was badly damaged by fire. She also took some soil samples during her visit.
Also present was Miri Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Supt II Ahmad Nizam Sapaiee.
Peat soil fires have been ravaging Kuala Baram since early this month, raising API readings to dangerous levels and blanketing the landscape under thick smoke and haze. — DayakDaily
