Indonesia, Aug. 21 -- Air quality in Palangka Raya, Central Kalimantan, reached hazardous levels as smoke and soot from forest and land fires blanketed parts of the city, local authorities said on Friday.

"Based on Palangka Raya disaster agency data, particulate matter levels range from moderate to hazardous at certain times," city official Samsul Rizal said.

He noted that forest and land fires extend beyond environmental damage, with smoke threatening public health, worsening air quality, reducing visibility, and disrupting transportation.

In early August, thick haze blanketed Palangka Raya, driving air quality into the hazardous category, he said.

Much of Palangka Raya consists of peatland, requiring heightened vigilance because bur...