SINGAPORE, Aug 19 — The ghost of the 2019 haze continues to haunt the Singapore Grand Prix.
Seven years after air quality tanked during the race weekend, threatening to derail one of the city-state’s most prestigious sporting events, the risk of severe transboundary haze is once again looming.
In September 2019, forest fires in Indonesia sent a thick, pungent smog over the circuit. While 268,000 spectators braved the conditions, organisers were forced to deploy first aiders and distribute N95 masks to a coughing crowd. Today, authorities warn that the risk is even higher.
Currently, the Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) remains in the moderate range of 51 to 100. However, the Meteorological Service Singapore warned on Aug 17 that intensifying fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, coupled with persistent dry conditions and strong El Nino effects, could push air quality into “unhealthy” territory.
Event organisers are operating on high alert. A Singapore GP spokesperson confirmed that haze risks are integrated into the event’s overall contingency plan, CNA reported.
“The plan was formulated and refined with stakeholders and government agencies. In the event that the haze causes visibility, public health or operational issues, Singapore GP would work closely with the relevant agencies before making any collective decisions regarding the event,” the spokesperson said.
This effort is spearheaded by the interagency Haze Task Force, a 28-member body chaired by the National Environment Agency. The task force has established tiered responses based on 24-hour PSI and hourly PM2.5 readings. For the GP, this means constant communication of haze developments and ensuring medical assistance and N95 masks are readily available on-site.
Other major outdoor operators are also preparing for the worst, with some considering cancellations or postponements. Sentosa Development Corporation is advising partners to adjust event formats and visitor advisories based on official guidance.
“This may include adjustments to event formats, operations or visitor advisories, where necessary and in line with official guidance,” a spokesperson said.
Similarly, HeritageSG is monitoring air quality ahead of the Singapore Night Festival, which runs from Aug 21 to Sep 5. Organisers warned that programmes may be relocated or cancelled to ensure public safety.
