BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Rainfall early Wednesday morning has helped ease haze conditions across Brunei, with all four districts recording good air quality as of 9am, according to the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe).
Brunei-Muara recorded a Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) reading of 31, followed by Belait at 33, Temburong at 50 and Tutong at 26.
A PSI reading below 50 is classified as good, while readings between 51 and 100 are considered moderate.
JASTRe said it would continue to closely monitor air quality and issue PSI updates five times daily at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm during the hazy period.
Since Sept 1, PM2.5 concentrations have been incorporated into the country’s PSI reporting. PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Despite the improvement, the public is advised to check the latest PSI readings through JASTRe’s website or Instagram account.
The public is also reminded to refrain from open burning and other activities that could worsen haze conditions during the dry period.
Bush and forest fires should be reported immediately to the Fire and Rescue Department at 995, while complaints regarding open burning or requests for health information can be made through the Darussalam Hotline 123.
Further health information and advice are available from the Ministry of Health. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
