Hazardous Haze from Underground Peat Fires in Central Kalimantan

Hazardous air pollution near Palangka Raya in Central Kalimantan is examined, focusing on peatland fires that have burned for months. The content describes thick haze, a burned-earth smell, underground smoldering, and reported respiratory cases linked to the fires.

■ Location and conditions
- Outside Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, with thick haze blanketing the area
- Air quality reported at hazardous levels because of peatland fires

■ Fire behavior
- No active above-ground fire visible in the observed area; smoke rises from the earth
- Peat burns deep underground and can continue smoldering after surface fire is extinguished
- Underground burning can potentially re-emerge above ground

■ Public health impact
- Residents have lived with these conditions for months
- The government has recorded hundreds of thousands of respiratory cases linked to the fires

It is suited to viewers seeking a concise overview of peatland fire pollution and its local health effects. Viewers gain context on why underground peat fires can sustain hazardous haze and what conditions residents face.