By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 2: : Air quality in Lubok Antu, Serian and Kuching remained at hazardous levels as of 4pm today, with Air Pollutant Index (API) readings in all three areas surpassing 300.
According to data from the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB) Sarawak, Lubok Antu recorded the highest reading in Sarawak at 358, followed by the IPD Serian at 325 and Kuching at 309.
The widespread haze has severely affected air quality across the State, with nearly all monitoring stations recording unhealthy or worse conditions.
Eight stations recorded API readings in the “Very Unhealthy” category, ranging from 201 to 300. Kanowit recorded the highest reading in this category at 299, followed by Samarahan at 287, Lundu at 257, Sarikei at 256, Sibu at 248, Sri Aman at 247, Tebedu at 246 and Mukah at 205.
Another eight stations registered “Unhealthy” readings of between 101 and 200. Betong recorded the highest at 200, followed by Bintulu at 192, Kapit at 190, Lawas at 186, Samalaju at 172, ILP Miri at 170, Limbang at 169 and Miri at 166.
Bario was the only location in Sarawak recording “Moderate” air quality, with an API reading of 92.
Authorities have warned that API readings above 300 pose serious risks to public health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as those with heart and lung conditions.
Members of the public in affected areas are advised to limit outdoor physical activities and take necessary health precautions until air quality improves. — DayakDaily
