Health experts warned that rising air pollution has reached an alarming level with adverse impacts on not only people’s health but also economic activities. They cautioned that Sri Lanka’s tourism sector may also experience the negative impacts of this development.

Speaking at a press briefing held by the Health Ministry’s Health Promotion Bureau, the Sri Lanka College of Pulmonologists President and consultant Dr. Neranjan Dissanayake added that studies based on around 70,000 scientific research reports have shown that annually, around seven million people die prematurely due to air pollution, and that this situation has been flagged by the World Health Organisation as well.

“Air pollution, both in the atmosphere and inside houses, causes various health issues, deteriorates existing health conditions, and weakens the management of existing health conditions. For example, when certain particles (causing air pollution) enter the lungs, the possibility of those causing cancer is high,” he explained, noting that in addition, air pollution further affects the economy as air pollution-related illnesses reduce people’s productivity. In a context where Sri Lanka has been globally recognised as a popular tourist destination, he explained that if air pollution in Sri Lanka worsens, it will have a negative impact on tourist arrivals.

It was further noted that although smokers are at a higher risk of experiencing air pollution related illnesses, non-smokers are not safe from the same. As some impacts of air pollution are long-term, it was explained that in the case of pregnant women, their children may also get affected.