Once again, El Nio and forest fires are wrecking havoc in South-east Asia. The haze has reached "very hazardous levels" in East Kalimantan, Brunei and eastern Malaysia. Malaysia has launched a major battle against the fires in the Sabah-Sarawak provinces. As the fires have gone out of control, this effort is not towards putting out the fires but merely containing their spread ( Down To Earth , Vol 6, No 11).
The meteorological monitoring authorities in Singapore say that the situation is grave both in the Borneo islands and in many parts of Malaysia. A shift in the wind's direction is also bringing the haze to Singapore, which recorded up to 80 on the Pollutants Standard Index -- from an earlier average of about 30 to 40. In the wake of water shortage, the authorities in Kuala Lumpur are now taking a close look at the need for rationing water supply. Some of the affected provinces have suggested that the government should take over the water supply and management systems.
Officials in Jakarta are depending on the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and other international agencies for tackling forest fires. They say, "The drought in many areas is so severe that the lands are completely parched. We fear there may be a major shortage of water and food and the miniseries are now assessing the situation in various provinces." Several bush fires have also been reported in southern Philippines.
During the 1997 crisis, none of these countries were prepared for such an environmental disaster. Even this year, these countries are not in a position to afford the cost of preventing the fires. This year's environmental crisis and the haze in South-east Asia could overshadow the economic crisis in the region, say environmentalists. Whereas non governmental organisations in Australia have warned that the drought in Pacific island would be on an 'unprecedented scale' this year.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.