Haze disrupts routines, leaves parents scrambling for childcare

KUALA LUMPUR: The worsening haze has thrown daily routines into chaos, raised safety concerns for road users, and left parents scrambling to find childcare solutions following a sudden announcement of school closures. Some have reported health issues and scaled back on outdoor activities, while others are pushing for employers to allow work-from-home (WFH) arrangements to minimize exposure to the haze.

Grab rider Ravi Chandraan has been unwell for three consecutive days, blaming his condition on the haze. The poor visibility on the roads has also made his motorcycle rides more hazardous, sparking safety concerns. Meanwhile, Nurul Adillah, who works in Cyberjaya, has abandoned her regular outdoor activities such as jogging, hiking, and other weekend pursuits due to the deteriorating haze. She now spends less time outdoors and has had to adjust her schedule indoors.

The situation has also impacted parents, as the short-notice school closures left them scrambling for childcare arrangements. Nazatul Shima, a mother of two, faced difficulty finding a backup plan or relatives nearby to help care for her children after learning of the closure late at night. She hopes employers will show understanding and flexibility towards parents struggling with childcare arrangements amidst the sudden changes.

Sujitraaa Sugumaran suggested that employers consider full WFH arrangements in light of the current situation, emphasizing that health should take precedence over all else. Commuters are also facing challenges, with Poja Conie Mila Charlie reporting poor visibility along her daily route from home to the nearest LRT station. She has had to walk through the haze every morning, which has made her commute more perilous.

Despite the challenges, 37 areas are currently reporting unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, a stark reminder of the ongoing haze crisis.