Air quality in multiple parts of Sri Lanka has deteriorated to levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, according to environmental authorities.
The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Northern, North Central, North Western, and Western provinces has risen to values between 150 and 200, indicating poor air conditions. CEA Media Spokesperson Dr. Ajith Gunawardena said the decline has been noticeable over the past few days and has intensified during the last 24 hours.
Health experts warn that such air quality levels may pose risks to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory illnesses. Members of the public experiencing breathing discomfort, coughing, or chest tightness have been advised to seek medical care without delay.
Dr. Gunawardena explained that the situation is largely influenced by transboundary air pollution, combined with weather patterns associated with the active northeastern monsoon, which restricts the natural dispersion of pollutants. He added that local human activities are also significantly contributing to the problem.
“Open burning of waste, vehicle exhaust emissions, and industrial activities are major sources of air pollution,” he said, urging the public to avoid burning garbage, plastics, polythene, and other harmful materials.
Meanwhile, air quality across many other regions of the country remains slightly unhealthy, based on real-time AQI readings. Areas such as Kaduruwela, Chilaw, Akaragama, Wanduragala, Digana, Madampagama, Hungama, Akkaraipattu, Kalawana, Mulliyawalai, Pannankandy, Adampan, Uppuveli, as well as parts of Jaffna and Colombo, have recorded elevated pollution levels.
A senior official from the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) stated that the current decline is primarily due to local pollution sources combined with atmospheric conditions that prevent pollutants from dispersing effectively.
According to the NBRO, these air quality conditions are likely to continue until around March next year, unless there is a significant change in weather patterns.
Authorities confirmed that air quality is being closely monitored nationwide, and the public is encouraged to take precautionary measures, particularly those belonging to high-risk groups.