Environment Minister Naseer Ahamad stated yesterday (9) that Sri Lanka is presently subjected to trans-boundary air pollution where air pollutants are transported through the wind movement.
He noted that Carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide particles are flying in from India and other countries with the onset of winds.
“Sri Lanka being an island country is vulnerable to trans boundary air pollution where air pollutants are transported through the wind movement. Recently observed (December 2022) high levels of air pollution were due to the wind movement from the northern part of South Asia towards Sri Lanka. According to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change of India, a sudden spike in air pollution levels observed in Delhi is possibly due to localized factors such as vehicular traffic, construction, and demolition activities. The global air pollution maps show a decline in air pollution levels due to the change in wind movements today (09) These particles reach Sri Lanka with the blowing of gusty winds in from India and other countries, triggered by the present atmospheric conditions that prevails over the island. However the situation in Sri Lanka has started subsiding.” Minister Ahamad stated. The particles of gases in the air can get into the lungs and blood streams and can cause heart conditions, the Minister also said.
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