Indonesia deploys oxygen buses as wildfire haze worsens in Borneo
Indonesia has deployed mobile oxygen clinics in Borneo as thick smoke from widespread forest and land fires pushes air pollution to hazardous levels, leaving residents struggling to breathe.
Footage from Palangka Raya on Wednesday, October 28, showed residents receiving treatment inside a white-and-blue bus offering free oxygen services.
The mobile clinics, converted from public transport and government vehicles, are equipped with oxygen tanks, medical supplies and health workers to assist communities affected by the haze.
Residents, particularly children, older people and outdoor workers, can receive supplemental oxygen during sessions lasting five to ten minutes.
Health worker Eka Nirmala said patients undergo oxygen saturation and blood pressure checks before receiving treatment, medication and vitamins. “Some have shortness of breath, while others feel weak, tired and exhausted,” she said.
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Local resident Fatimah, who suffers from asthma, said the worsening haze had made breathing difficult despite wearing a mask and taking precautions.
Health officials say the mobile clinics are helping ease pressure on hospitals as respiratory illnesses increase across the region.
However, residents and environmental advocates warn that the buses offer only temporary relief and are calling for stronger action against illegal land clearing.
Indonesia regularly experiences forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, but this year's blazes have been described as the worst in more than a decade.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
