Post by : Saif Rahman

Indonesia has deployed a mobile oxygen bus in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, to help residents struggling to breathe as thick smoke from forest fires continues to cover parts of the country. The emergency service provides oxygen support and access to medical professionals as worsening air pollution raises concerns about public health.

Seasonal wildfires have become especially severe this year, affecting communities across Indonesia’s Sumatra and Borneo islands. Smoke from the fires has also spread across parts of Southeast Asia, affecting air quality and creating difficult conditions for residents.

Mobile Oxygen Bus Offers Relief to Residents

The local government has equipped a white-and-blue bus with oxygen tanks and medical staff to assist people experiencing breathing difficulties. Residents can receive oxygen through a small tube placed near the nose for a short period under medical supervision.

Health officials in Central Kalimantan said the service is intended to help people who need oxygen support because of unhealthy air conditions.

Medical workers record patients’ details and assess their symptoms before providing assistance. Many residents visiting the bus have reported coughing, breathing difficulties and tightness in the chest after exposure to smoke.

People living in affected areas say the haze has made everyday activities increasingly uncomfortable. Some residents experience symptoms after spending time outdoors, particularly when smoke becomes thick and visibility declines.

Forest Fires Worsen Air Pollution Across Indonesia

Indonesia regularly faces forest and peatland fires during the dry season. However, the current fires have been particularly intense, with an El Niño weather pattern contributing to higher temperatures and drier conditions.

Dry forests and peatlands can burn for extended periods, making fires difficult to control. Smoke from these blazes contains harmful particles that can affect breathing and aggravate existing respiratory conditions.

Parts of Borneo and Sumatra have recorded extremely high air pollution levels. Conditions have also affected neighbouring countries, including Malaysia and Singapore, as smoke travels across national borders.

The worsening haze has raised concerns about the health of children, older people and individuals with respiratory problems. Officials continue to face pressure to limit exposure and improve emergency support for affected communities.

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Respiratory Illnesses Increase as Smoke Persists

Indonesia’s health authorities have reported a rise in respiratory illnesses linked to the forest fires. Central Kalimantan has been among the affected areas, with residents seeking medical help for coughing and breathing problems.

People using the oxygen bus have described chest tightness and persistent coughing after being exposed to thick smoke outside their homes.

The mobile service provides temporary relief for people who need oxygen, but it cannot resolve the wider pollution crisis. Medical assistance may still be necessary for people with severe or continuing symptoms.

Public health concerns are growing as the fires continue and unhealthy air conditions persist. Reducing exposure to smoke remains important, particularly for people who must travel or work outdoors.

Students Demand Stronger Government Action

The worsening conditions have also triggered public frustration. Students recently protested outside the provincial governor’s office, calling for a stronger response to the forest fires.

Their demands reflect wider concerns about the impact of the fires on public health, education and daily life. Prolonged haze can disrupt outdoor activities and make it harder for schools and communities to operate normally.

Authorities face the challenge of controlling fires across large forested areas while providing immediate support to people affected by smoke. The situation also highlights the importance of preventing land and forest fires before they spread.

Indonesia Faces Growing Environmental and Health Challenges

The oxygen bus offers residents in Palangka Raya temporary support as Indonesia struggles with worsening forest fire haze. However, the continuing spread of smoke and the increase in respiratory illnesses underline the need for a broader response.

Improved fire prevention, faster emergency action and public health protection will be essential to reducing the impact on affected communities. Until air quality improves, residents may continue to face breathing difficulties and other health risks associated with prolonged smoke exposure.

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