HAZE blanketed the state capital here and surrounding areas yesterday as the massive fire that has been raging through a coconut plantation for nearly two weeks continued.

The tall structures in the state capital — including Menara Kuantan 188 and the Kuantan City Council complex facing Sungai Kuantan — were barely visible at noon.

Nonetheless, daily life in the state capital was not affected, with businesses operating as usual while the air quality remained at a moderate level.

However, a food stall operator, who wanted to be known as Lim Chuen, told the New Straits Times that he fears the situation could worsen in the coming days amid the hot and dry weather.

He said he had experienced the haze in previous years, which forced him and his workers to wear face masks while manning the stall.

“I hope it rains and the air quality improves.”

Although the air pollutant index (API) reading in Balok Baru, where the fire broke out on Feb 22, has shown improvement, the winds are carrying the thick smoke from the blaze towards the town centre.

Pahang Department of Environment director Wandi Yadzid Yaakob said the current wind direction has brought the smoke from the fires in Balok Baru to other parts of Kuantan.

Balok Baru — situated along the coast northeast of Kuantan — is home to plantations, including coconut plantations, and is near popular coastal destinations such as Balok Beach.

A Health Department spokesman advised people, especially those with respiratory conditions, to wear face masks when leaving their homes.

The spokesman said those feeling unwell should seek immediate medical treatment.

API readings are categorised as “good” between zero to 50, “moderate” between 51 and 100, “unhealthy” between 101 and 200, “very unhealthy” between 201 and 300 and “hazardous” above 301.

Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah on Tuesday expressed concern over the huge fire and urged all outdoor activities to be suspended.

The peat soil fire has affected some 130ha, with firemen still fighting to put out the blaze.