KUALA LUMPUR: The Environment Department (DOE) is conducting drone surveillance and deploying additional air quality monitoring equipment to investigate the significant difference in Air Pollutant Index (API) readings between the Batu Muda and Cheras stations here.
In a statement Sunday (Nov 15), the DOE said the measures were taken following API readings at the Batu Muda Air Quality Monitoring Station remaining at unhealthy levels of over 150 for the past two days, compared with the nearby Cheras station, which recorded readings of only around 60.
It said additional equipment had been installed near the Batu Muda station to obtain supporting data for technical analysis, with preliminary findings to be announced after 24 hours of monitoring and completion of the technical review.
“At the same time, drone-based air monitoring is also being conducted to help identify possible sources of air pollutant emissions, including open burning activities in the surrounding areas,” the statement said.
Earlier, the DOE said an investigation which began Saturday (Nov 14) involved inspections of monitoring stations, field patrols and efforts to identify sources of pollution in the surrounding areas.
“Initial inspections found that the station was operating properly. However, further reviews are being conducted to verify the readings recorded.
“Patrols identified two small-scale open burning incidents, and both fires were extinguished on the same day,” the statement said.
The DOE reminded the public not to engage in open burning or allow their land and premises to be encroached upon by irresponsible parties, resulting in open burning, whether for specific purposes or accidentally.
Those convicted of an offence under Section 29(A) of the Environmental Quality Act 1974 may face a fine of up to RM1mil or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, in addition to a compound of up to 50% of the maximum fine for each offence.
The public is also urged to help put out small fires and report open burning incidents to the Fire and Rescue Department at 999 or the DOE's toll-free line at 1-800-88-2727.
The latest hourly API readings can be accessed via the website at https://eqms.doe.gov.my/APIMS/
