Summary
Singapore is reviewing data on the haze and has kept open the option of legal action against companies under its transboundary pollution law.
Hourly PM2.5 levels in western Singapore reached 288 at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, the highest recorded since 2015.
Authorities began distributing N95 masks and setting up haze shelters as unhealthy air quality prompted closures of sports facilities.
SINGAPORE: Singapore hasn’t ruled out legal action against companies responsible for haze pollution, even when their activities take place overseas.
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said the government was collecting and reviewing data before deciding on its next steps. Speaking to reporters at a mask collection event at Yuhua Community Club on Wednesday night, Oct 14, Ms Fu said the information would receive due consideration.
The Transboundary Haze Pollution Act, which took effect in September 2014, allows Singapore to pursue companies that cause or contribute to haze pollution here, even if the activities responsible occur abroad, Channel NewsAsia reported (Oct 14).
Air pollution reaches its highest level since 2015
The latest haze episode has brought an immediate problem closer to home. Singapore’s hourly PM2.5 reading in the west reached 288 at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, its highest level since 2015.
PM2.5 refers to fine particles that can enter deep into the lungs. Readings were also high across the south, east and central regions. The 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) was in the unhealthy range nationwide at 3 p.m.
The worsening air quality prompted Sport Singapore to close outdoor and non-air-conditioned facilities at ActiveSG sports centres in the west. SAFRA Toa Payoh also suspended outdoor activities and shut its swimming pool.
Singapore offers help as Indonesia battles fires
Ms Fu said Singapore hoped Indonesia could bring the fires under control within a month, despite difficult weather conditions linked to El Niño. She described the situation as complex and said Singapore stayed ready to help.
There had been no update on Singapore’s offer of assistance, she said. The offer remained open, with support to be shaped by what Indonesian counterparts considered useful.
Singapore also intends to discuss the haze with its fellow members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The problem crosses national borders, making regional cooperation important alongside action by individual governments.
N95 masks and haze shelters offer immediate relief
The government began distributing N95 masks in stages after PM2.5 readings entered the very high range. Air-conditioned rooms at community clubs and selected Residents’ Committee and Residents’ Network centres were also opened as haze shelters.
Ms Fu said distribution teams were working with different sectors, including contractors bringing vending machines to more parts of Singapore. She asked residents to be patient while the rollout continued.
Legal action may take time, but people need protection while the haze persists. Expanding access to masks, sharing reliable air-quality updates and helping vulnerable residents should stay at the front of the response.
Holding companies accountable and helping Indonesia tackle the fires can work towards the same goal: cleaner air across the region.
Read related: Free N95 masks for vulnerable individuals to mitigate haze’s negative health effects in Singapore