By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 30: Boat users in Sarawak have been advised to postpone non-essential river journeys as worsening haze reduces visibility and increases the risk of collisions on the State’s waterways.
In a TVS news report, Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) and Tasik Biru assemblyman, Dato Henry Harry Jinep, said poor visibility caused by the haze could make it difficult for boat operators, particularly those using small boats, to spot other vessels.
A reminder notice had been issued to waterway users about two weeks ago, urging them to exercise caution when travelling during periods of poor visibility, according to him.
“Since two weeks ago, we have issued a notice to waterway users to be cautious, especially villagers who use small boats.
“It is very dangerous when the API is too high, as visibility becomes very limited and this could result in collisions between boats,” he said when commenting on the current haze situation in Sarawak and its impact on waterway users recently.
He said those without an urgent need to travel by river should consider postponing their journeys until visibility improves.
“We have advised boat users, owners and operators to be careful. If possible, postpone your travel plans on rivers or waterways for now,” he said.
The haze had created particularly concerning conditions in Kuching, where the Air Pollutant Index (API) had reached 299.
“So far, Sarawak is in an unsafe situation, especially Kuching, which today has reached 299 and may be in a very dangerous situation.
“We should reduce activities, especially those involving river travel, because this situation is beyond our control and that is what makes it dangerous,” he added.
He urged the public to take the necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary river travel while visibility remained poor to reduce the risk of untoward incidents. — DayakDaily
