Additional air pollution: Plea to residents of Sarajevo Canton not to use pyrotechnics

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - The Ministry of Communal Economy, Infrastructure, Spatial Planning, Construction and Environmental Protection of Sarajevo Canton reminds that the "Readiness" episode is in effect in Sarajevo Canton, declared two days ago, in accordance with the Plan of Intervention Measures in Cases of Excessive Air Pollution.

As announced, due to stable weather conditions characterized by temperature inversion and lack of wind, polluting particles accumulate in the air during the night and in the morning hours, while the situation improves in the remaining parts of the day.

Oscillations in air quality are possible in the coming days, which is why the Public Health Institute of Sarajevo Canton recommends that extremely sensitive population groups, especially those who do not use therapy correctly and on time, who are chronic lung and/or heart patients, and people prone to severe allergic reactions, reduce long-term and strenuous physical exertion, especially in the morning and evening hours when the concentrations of pollutants in the air are highest.

If they plan to stay outdoors in the urban zone, especially in the areas of Otoka, Ilijaš, and Ilidža, the institute recommends wearing a face mask with protective respiratory filters.

The Ministry asks citizens to refrain from using pyrotechnic devices on New Year's Eve, i.e., during the upcoming holidays, as their combustion releases ultra-fine dust particles, heavy metals, and other harmful substances.

They also inform that KJKP "Rad" will intensify the use of the wet method for settling dust particles in the air on public transport surfaces in Sarajevo Canton in the coming days, for which additional funds have been allocated from the Sarajevo Canton Budget.

The use of the wet method can significantly reduce re-emissions from roads, which originate from the wear of tires, brakes, and asphalt surfaces.