KUCHING: River users across Sarawak have been urged to exercise extra caution and consider delaying their journeys if visibility deteriorates amid the current elevated Air Pollutant Index (API) readings.
Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Maritime) Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) has issued a riverine safety advisory following concerns that prevailing air quality conditions could reduce visibility and affect safe navigation along the state’s waterways.
He said shipping communities, vessel masters, penambang operators and other river users should remain vigilant while navigating rivers, particularly while API readings remain elevated.
“River users are strongly urged to navigate safely, reduce speed and maintain a proper lookout at all times.
“Vessel operators should also travel at a safe speed according to the prevailing visibility, weather and river conditions, and exercise extra caution when approaching, passing or overtaking other vessels,” he said in a statement today (Sat, Aug 22).
The advisory was issued after API readings across much of Sarawak remained relatively high as of 8am on Saturday.
Henry said reduced visibility could pose additional risks to river navigation, making it important for operators to adjust their movements according to conditions.
Where visibility becomes significantly reduced, he said operators should consider delaying or suspending navigation until conditions improve, provided it is safe and practicable to do so.
“Penambang operators have also been reminded to ensure their vessels are in safe operating condition, and that all necessary safety equipment is available and properly maintained,” he said.
Henry said river users should continue monitoring changing conditions and take the necessary precautions before and during their journeys.
He reiterated the call for operators to remain vigilant, reduce their speed and navigate carefully while API readings remain elevated.
“Safety on our rivers is a shared responsibility. The cooperation of shipping communities and all river users is essential in reducing the risk of accidents and safeguarding passengers, crew and other river users,” he said.
