As I write this, the API index in some parts of Selangor has reached an unhealthy level of 132, whereas in Nilai the API index also stands at an unhealthy level of 109.

We witnessed some rain of hope since Sunday, where it poured down at a few places around the nation. However, it is still not enough to bring down the API and the signs of haze are still clearly visible.

The current scenario is caused by the alarming number of forest and bush fires around the nation due to the prolonged dry spell. Fire-controlling activities use up a high amount of water, thus causing even more water stress in the affected area.

Devastating forest/bush fires were seen in several parts of Penang, where they were said to be worst in the last 10 years. The fires at Bukit Bendera and Bukit Gambir could only be put out after a few days worth of efforts.

As of today, the drought code (DC) issued by the Meteorological Department mostly ranges from high to extreme for peninsular Malaysia. States like Perlis, Penang, Negri Sembilan, Selangor, Wilayah Persekutuan KL and Johor had been labelled with having an ‘extreme’ drought code.

As for the fine fuel moisture code (FFMC), the entire peninsula with the exception of several parts of Terengganu and Pahang show the ‘red’ (extreme) code. Both the DC and FFMC are measures of potential of fire hazard. These indications show that we should look into fire prevention and fire control measures more seriously.

Forest/bush fire causes severe damages to people’s livelihood. Not only does it threaten the lives of people in the surrounding area, it also causes economical loss, air pollution and more than ever the concern now is on the water demand it poses.

The increase in demand for water is devastating to the already drying-up water levels in dams. Also, water used in firefighting is highly polluting to the water usually laden with pesticides, fertilisers and organic as well as inorganic chemicals. This further degrades river water quality when it is channeled back to rivers, thus increasing the cost to treat water and in a worst case scenario, cause the water to become untreatable.

One of the existing best practices involves collecting fire water in the drainage system and locking them down using valves before transporting them for a specialised ex-situ treatment prior to the release into the river. In order to address the increased water demand posed by firefighting activities, other alternatives such as using recycled water should be considered. Rain water harvesting is another viable option to collect water for firefighting purposes.

The people play a significant role in curbing forest/bush fires. They should alert the Fire and Rescue Department immediately if they encounter fire. Quick responses by firefighting personnel are also vital to eradicate fires quickly. We should also refrain from performing open burning and should stay away from fire causing behaviors such as discarding cigarette butts that are still lit.

MATHINI ARVEENA RAVEE is research and policy executive, Water and Sanitation Services Forum Air Malaysia (Malaysian Water Forum).