THE Johor Fire and Rescue Department is collaborating with the Department of Environment (DOE) to monitor the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Johor. According to the deputy director, Mohd Rizal Buang, there have been 551 cases of open burning reported in the state between May 15 and Sept 5. If any significant changes in the API readings are detected by the DOE, they will inform the fire and rescue department, which will consequently conduct investigations to prevent environmental pollution. Mohd Rizal emphasizes that prompt action is taken to handle all cases and avoid further escalation.
Despite the rainy weather, open burning incidents in Johor continue to increase. On Sept 4, the department received 17 reports of open burning cases, which, though minor, demonstrate a rising trend. Mohd Rizal urges the public to refrain from burning rubbish or clearing land using fire as such actions can quickly spiral out of control.
The Mersing District Disaster Management Committee, led by chairman Mohammed Shakib Ali, is also closely monitoring open burning incidents in the area. He urges the public to promptly report any incidents to the authorities, enabling immediate action to be taken. Mohammed Shakib, who is also the district officer, mentions that the department recently conducted a tsunami training exercise at the Dewan Jubli Intan temporary relief center.
This drill, the first of its kind, involved 30 volunteers acting as victims who needed to be rescued after the activation of a tsunami alert. Mohammed Shakib notes the presence of a tsunami alert tower in Menara Tanjung since October of the previous year.
Credit: The Star : Metro Feed
