Sarajevo Canton: Air heavily polluted, improvement expected mid-week

(Patria) - High levels of PM10 particles are currently being recorded at all measuring stations in Sarajevo Canton, ranging from 265 micrograms per cubic meter at the Bjelave location to 167 µg/m3 in Hadžići.

Due to air pollution, a Warning from the Intervention Measures Plan is in effect.

According to the synoptic forecast, changes in weather conditions that could contribute to improved air quality are not expected until Wednesday to Thursday.

Until then, stable weather will prevail, with light winds and temperature inversion in the morning and evening hours.

Due to heavily polluted air, the competent cantonal ministry has requested increased supervision over the implementation of the intervention measures currently in force.

All competent inspectorates, investors, and construction contractors are asked to comply with the ban, i.e., suspend rough construction work outdoors, as dust emissions from these sources further contribute to air pollution.

Increased engagement of municipal and Cantonal urban-planning and construction inspectorates in overseeing the implementation of this measure on the ground is expected.

To reduce the re-suspension of dust due to heavy traffic, the Ministry has ordered KJKP "Rad" to carry out mechanical and manual cleaning, as well as washing of roads, in accordance with external temperatures.

The municipalities of Ilijaš, Vogošća, Hadžići, and Ilidža are obliged to ensure the removal of loose material from treated surfaces through the legal entity with which winter road maintenance is contracted.

Currently, traffic for heavy motor vehicles with a maximum permissible mass exceeding 3.5 tons is prohibited on the main city longitudinal route, on the stretch from Baščaršija to Nedžarići.

On the territory of the four city municipalities, the movement of cars with diesel engines of EURO2 standard or lower is prohibited.

The Ministry calls on all commercial and service facilities to adhere to the measures and replace energy sources if possible, and for heating plants using solid fuels and heating oil to reduce temperature according to the Intervention Measures Plan.

Emissions must be monitored regularly, and emission reports submitted to the Ministry.

Particular appeal is made to users of solid fuels to be mindful not to further contribute to air pollution through inappropriate heating methods, reminding that any burning of waste in households is prohibited and punishable.

The Ministry also expects increased inspection supervision of industrial and other "large" polluters by the Federal Environmental Inspection, which fall within their area of responsibility.

Non-compliance with the prescribed measures is subject to sanctions, the Ministry notes.