Decline in air quality observed across several areas; CEA advises caution

Dr. Ajith Gunawardena, the Media Spokesperson for the Central Environmental Authority (CEA), announced that air quality is declining in several regions of Sri Lanka. He reported that since yesterday (18), the Air Quality Index (AQI) has been between 150 and 200 in the Northern, North Central, North Western, Western, and Southern provinces, including the Ratnapura and Kegalle districts. Dr. Gunawardena called this level "moderately unhealthy" and predicted that conditions would improve in the next two days. He explained that the drop in air quality is partly caused by air pollution crossing borders. He warned that this situation could negatively impact sensitive people and advised anyone with breathing problems or allergies to seek medical help right away. Dr. Gunawardena emphasized that human activities, like burning trash and vehicle emissions, significantly worsen air pollution. He urged the public to avoid burning materials such as plastic and polythene. He assured everyone that the CEA is actively monitoring air quality and weather conditions to keep the public informed.