Air pollution in Singapore reached a record

People in Singapore, one of the cleanest countries in the world, are breathing the most harmful atmosphere ever due to wildfires in Indonesia.

>>>Smoke from Indonesia covers Malaysia's city

Guardian reported Singarpore's air pollution index at 371 yesterday - above the threshold that could cause respiratory diseases. The largest pollution index was 226, occurring in 1997.

Smoke from forest fires in Indonesia has been flown to Singapore and Malaysia many times, often in the middle of the year. But the severity of the incident this week has caused diplomatic tensions. Singapore officials demanded that Jakarta have to take more drastic action to stop planters and forest-burning farmers from taking land on Sumatra.

Air pollution levels in Singapore in recent days can cause respiratory diseases.(Photo: AP)

'This is the worst pollution that Singapore has ever faced. No country or business has the right to pollute the atmosphere to harm the health and well-being of Singaporeans , 'wrote Vivian Balakrishnan, Singarpore Environment Minister on Facebook.

Changi airport management requires careful air traffic control personnel due to low visibility, while McDonald's announces that they will stop delivery services to protect workers' health.

Some hospitals close windows to protect older patients. Many football and boat racing matches this weekend were canceled.

During a press conference yesterday, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that smoke could exist in Singapore in the next few days due to weather conditions. He also announced the establishment of a government committee to protect people's health and the economy.

'People should limit their leave. We will overcome this situation together , 'he said.

Air quality in a southern state of Malaysia is also low by smoke from Indonesia. Officials requested 200 schools to stop working until June 21 and this situation could continue if the smoke had not dissolved. The government prohibits people from causing outdoor fires and those who violate the ban can serve up to five years in prison.