Air quality levels in several parts of Sri Lanka have deteriorated to unhealthy levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranging between 150 and 200 in the Northern, North Central, North Western and Western provinces, the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) said.
CEA Media Spokesperson Dr. Ajith Gunawardena said the decline in air quality has been observed over the past few days and has persisted during the last 24 hours.
AQI levels within this range are considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart conditions.
Dr. Gunawardena warned that individuals experiencing breathing difficulties or other respiratory symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
He advised the public, particularly vulnerable groups, to limit outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality.
According to the CEA, the current conditions are partly due to transboundary air movement and the effects of the active northeastern monsoon.
However, human activities are also contributing significantly to the deterioration, he said.
“Open burning of garbage and other materials, vehicle emissions and similar activities are major contributors to worsening air quality,” Dr. Gunawardena said, urging the public to refrain from burning waste, especially plastics and polythene.
He added that the CEA is continuing to closely monitor air quality across the country and will keep the public informed of any significant changes.
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