CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Severe fires in Indonesia’s forests and peatlands have deepened a health crisis. According to government figures, 1,13,336 people had been treated for respiratory illnesses by September 9. The number is more than double the 50,891 cases recorded on September 1.
The fires have had the greatest impact across several parts of Borneo and Sumatra. According to health officials, more than 1.25 crore people in seven provinces have been exposed to smoke and toxic haze. Air quality has deteriorated sharply in many areas, leading to an increase in complaints such as cough, sore throat and breathing difficulties. Amid the crisis, schools have also had to be closed or shifted online. Reports say the education of more than 14 lakh students across the country has been affected. The impact of the smoke has reached neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore.
According to reports, super El Niño conditions linked to extreme heat and drought have helped the fires spread. The government has deployed more than 50 aircraft to fight the fires, while several countries, including Japan, have also sent assistance.
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