Sensitive groups warned of air pollutants from neighbouring countries blanketing SL

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama  

Sensitive people are advised to exercise caution in this situation due to the presence of air pollutants generated in India and other neighbouring countries, according to National Building Research Organization (NBRO) Senior Scientist H.D. Sarath Premasiri.  

Air pollutants have spread around the country over the past three days.  

“Sensitive people such as pregnant women, elderly people, people with respiratory illnesses, and people with heart or lung disease should be mindful of this and take early precautions to avoid air interaction,” Premasiri said.  

It is preferable if the aforementioned individuals remain at home and are not exposed. The NBRO opines this current situation will come under control by tomorrow or the day after. This situation usually takes place with the onset of the northeast monsoon. The monsoon winds carry air pollutants into India and other countries receiving the country’s rainfall. This situation increases the dust particles in certain areas of the country.  

To control the situation, Premasiri also requested that garbage be burnt and vehicle emissions be reduced.