Vulnerable groups warned as air quality worsens

Forecasts indicate Air Quality Index (AQI) values ranging between 56 and 120, with peak pollution levels expected between 8.00 a.m. and 9.00 a.m. and again between 4.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m.

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

Sri Lanka’s air quality has worsened in several parts of the country with experts advising vulnerable groups to stay cautious and limit strenuous outdoor activities.   

Speaking to Daily Mirror, Senior Scientist of the Air Quality Unit at the NBRO said the situation could pose risks to children, pregnant mothers, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart conditions.  “We advise these groups to be particularly cautious during this period, as even short-term exposure to polluted air can trigger breathing difficulties and other health issues,” the official said.  

He also advised the public to avoid strenuous outdoor activities during these peak hours, as physical exertion can increase the amount of polluted air inhaled into the lungs.   

The experts said the deterioration is mainly due to polluted air being carried into the country by prevailing winds from neighbouring regions, increasing the concentration of harmful particles in the atmosphere. According to the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), air quality remain at moderate levels in Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Embilipitiya, Trincomalee, Mullaitivu, Batticaloa, Kalutara and Hambantota.   

However, slightly unhealthy conditions were recorded in Kandy, Kegalle, Galle, Puttalam, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura and Moneragala.   

The NBRO further urged people to wear face masks whenever possible and said sensitive individuals should seek immediate medical attention if they experience breathing difficulties, coughing or chest discomfort.   

Forecasts indicate Air Quality Index (AQI) values ranging between 56 and 120, with peak pollution levels expected between 8.00 a.m. and 9.00 a.m. and again between 4.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m.