THE Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation (JASTRE) yesterday issued a press release advising children, the elderly and those with respiratory illnesses to stay indoors and refrain from outdoor physical activities, particularly for those in the Tutong and Kuala Belait region where the air quality is rated as unhealthy.

As of 6pm yesterday, Brunei-Muara and Temburong recorded Pollutant Standard Index (PSI) readings of 92 and 64 respectively, Tutong and Kuala Belait on the other hand recorded PSI readings exceeding 100.

PSI readings below 50 is considered good. Numbers falling between 50 and 100 is moderate while PSI readings above 100 is considered unhealthy.

JASTRE used the opportunity to remind the public to refrain from carrying out open burning as it will worsen the haze.

"Despite the reminders issued by the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation, open burning is still carried out in many locations in the country especially during evening hours," said the statement.

The department will continue to closely monitor the air quality and conduct surveillance on backyard and open burning activities as well as provide updated information and advice on the air quality over radio and television.

The public can contact the department about any complaints on open burning through hotlines 8999900/ 8837751 / 8837741. Those interested in knowing the air quality can do so by contacting 2383222 extension 514 during normal office hours.

The PSI readings can also be accessed online at www.env.gov.bn.

(MJH1)The Brunei Times