• NBRO’s emergency action plan requires support from multiple stakeholders for implementation

Over the past two weeks, Sri Lanka has faced a troubling decline in air quality, with multiple cities recording Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the slightly unhealthy range of 100-150. Major urban areas such as Colombo, Jaffna, and Polonnaruwa have appeared to be the hardest hit, exposing residents to significant health risks. 

The deterioration is primarily attributed to transboundary air pollution, worsened by cyclonic weather and the onset of the north-east monsoon.

Air pollution remains one of the leading environmental and public health challenges worldwide, causing significant adverse effects on human health and the environment. Globally, air pollution is responsible for approximately seven million premature deaths annually, as estimated by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

This figure highlights its position as a significant risk factor, second only to high blood pressure, tobacco smoking, and poor diets. Particulate matter pollution, in particular, accounted for 4.14 million deaths globally in 2021. 

Children under five are especially vulnerable, with 709,000 deaths in this age group attributed to air pollution in the same year according to the ‘State of Global Air Report 2024’. These impacts are more pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting the disparities in environmental health risks.

In Sri Lanka, the situation reflects broader global patterns, with urbanisation, industrialisation, and increased vehicle emissions also contributing to deteriorating air quality. Recent AQI readings across various regions of Sri Lanka have shown a worrying trend of unhealthy levels, particularly during the north-east monsoon season. 

These trends are often aggravated by transboundary pollution from neighbouring regions, as pollutants are carried into the country due to cyclonic and seasonal weather patterns. This aligns with global findings that air pollution levels often peak in specific climatic conditions, impacting regional air quality.

National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) Director General Dr. Asiri Karunawardena said that the recent spike in air pollution was expected, as pollutants from neighbouring regions were carried into Sri Lanka due to cyclonic activity exacerbating the effects of the north-east monsoon.

Factors behind worsening air quality

As explained by NBRO Director – Technical H.D.S. Premasiri, the primary cause of the elevated AQI levels has been the influx of pollutants from neighbouring countries, generally referred to by the term ‘transboundary pollution’. 

Cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal has drawn these pollutants into Sri Lanka, compounding the issue.

“The north-east monsoon period typically brings a decline in air quality and this year is no exception. It’s important to note that this is a regional problem and it is not something Sri Lanka can solve on its own,” he said. 

Premasiri believes that the cyclonic weather conditions only aggravated the already worsening air quality resulting from the north-east monsoon. While transboundary pollution is the dominant factor, local sources such as vehicle emissions, construction activities, and industrial operations also play a role. 

He admitted that these sources contributed to poor air quality, but emphasised that strict guidelines had been gazetted and were enforced through law. If there was a violation, law enforcement authorities would take appropriate action. 

Nevertheless, he also noted that Sri Lanka’s pollution levels were generally within healthy levels and that while vehicle emissions, construction activities, and industrial operations played a role, they did not significantly contribute to adverse pollution.

Seasonal weather patterns, including low wind speeds and high humidity during the monsoon, exacerbate the problem by trapping pollutants closer to the ground. This results in smog-like conditions that linger in urban areas, further compromising air quality. In view of the contributing factors, it is imperative that the public remains cautious of the health hazards.

Public health concerns

The health risks associated with poor air quality are significant. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which has been a major contributor to the high AQI levels, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly vulnerable.

Air pollution has direct and indirect impacts on environmental sustainability, economic productivity, and human health. In Sri Lanka, diseases such as lung cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), stroke, and acute lower respiratory infections are linked to poor air quality, mirroring global trends. 

The economic burden is significant, with air pollution costs amounting to approximately 6.1% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) or $ 8.1 trillion, according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive air quality management strategies.

To address these concerns, Dr. Karunawardena urged the public to take precautions such as wearing masks and minimising outdoor activities during periods of high pollution. 

Meanwhile, Premasiri disclosed that the Ministry of Health had conducted a health assessment to evaluate the impact of worsening air quality.

However, Ministry of Health Occupational Health Unit Head Dr. Inoka Suraweera said that no recent studies had been conducted by the ministry, but noted that future studies may be conducted to study the impact of air quality. 

“Patients presenting with respiratory symptoms are typically treated on an outpatient basis, but a comprehensive study is necessary to better understand the seasonal patterns and contributing factors. During December and January, cooler weather conditions often correlate with an increase in respiratory illnesses among the population,” she said.

“Short-term exposure to indoor air pollutants can lead to immediate respiratory issues too, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. However, long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of developing chronic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and COPD. 

‘In Sri Lanka, according to the 2016 Demographic and Health Survey, many households use firewood as their primary fuel source, especially in rural areas. Burning firewood produces harmful substances, including dioxins and furans, which are highly toxic and carcinogenic. 

“These pollutants not only elevate the risk of cancer but also harm the immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems. While using firewood may be a necessity for some, it is crucial to avoid burning plastics, such as yoghurt cups and plastic bags, as they release additional hazardous chemicals into the air,” she added.

Emergency Action Plan

In preparation for potential further declines in air quality, the NBRO has developed an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). 

Premasiri outlined some of the key measures that would be implemented if AQI levels reached very unhealthy levels, such as suspension of all construction activities, prohibition of open burning, and restriction of vehicles entering high-pollution areas, among others.

He stressed that enforcing these measures would require collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including the Police and the Central Environmental Authority (CEA). 

“While these measures can mitigate immediate risks, it’s equally important for citizens to proactively perform their part as responsible members of society,” he added.

Regional and international collaboration

Addressing air quality challenges in Sri Lanka requires a multifaceted approach, including collaboration with international partners. Both Dr. Karunawardena and Premasiri called for stronger engagement with international forums to tackle transboundary pollution.

“In the midst of operating international law on climate change, such as the Paris Agreement, to which Sri Lanka is a party, it is imperative that the Government works with our neighbours to develop regional pacts for improving air quality across the subcontinent,” Dr. Karunawardena noted.

This collaborative effort is crucial, as air pollution in South Asia often transcends national boundaries, making isolated efforts less effective. Regional agreements could include shared air quality monitoring systems, joint emission reduction targets, and coordinated responses to seasonal pollution spikes.

“The Government’s focus on sustainable development will play a key role in addressing air pollution. Transitioning to cleaner energy sources, developing better transport systems, and adopting eco-friendly urban planning practices are essential for achieving this goal,” Premasiri stated.

Repeated attempts by The Sunday Morning to contact Ministry of Health Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena and other ministerial staff proved futile.