BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Air quality across all four districts in Brunei Darussalam remained at good levels Tuesday (Oct 20) morning following recent rainfall, according to the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRe).
At 9am, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) readings were 19 in Brunei-Muara, 24 in Belait, 31 in Temburong and 32 in Tutong.
JASTRe, under the Ministry of Development, said a PSI reading below 50 is classified as good.
The department continues to monitor air quality and issue PSI updates five times daily at 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm and 4pm during the hazy period.
Since September 1, PM2.5 concentrations have been incorporated into the country’s PSI reporting. These fine particles, measuring less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting cardiovascular and respiratory health.
The public is advised to check the latest PSI readings through JASTRe’s website at www.env.gov.bn or its Instagram account, @jastre.bn.
Residents are also urged to avoid open burning, which could worsen haze conditions during dry periods.
Any bush or forest fires should be reported immediately to the Fire and Rescue Department at 995, while complaints about open burning and requests for health information can be directed to the Darussalam Hotline at 123. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
