Hanoi chokes on filthy air
 

The latest wave of air pollution has spread on a much larger scale compared to previous times, not only affecting northern regions, but also central localities such as Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh.

Worryingly, air quality in some areas is exceeding the red-warning level, meaning that the air quality present in the local atmosphere has reached a very unhealthy level for local residents.

According to PAMAir, Hanoi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) are likely to remain at “bad levels” over the coming days, especially at night and into the early morning when temperature inversion is likely to be repeated.

Records released from the air-quality analysis system of the Vietnam Environment Administration (VEA) show similar AQI levels.

As a result of the health risks involved, specialists have moved to advise citizens to refrain from venturing outside unless necessary. Indeed, adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from respiratory diseases have been recommended to wear masks and glasses if they do go out.

Although local authorities have been trying to take some measures in an effort to combat worsening air pollution, they have yet to yield any results.

The capital has strictly enforced laws on environmental protection whilst imposing punitive measures on production workshops and services, as well as industrial parks and industrial complexes that violate the law.

It has also implemented measures aimed at easing traffic congestion and pollution caused by vehicles. It has encouraged local people to stop burning straw, plant byproducts, and other waste in an effort to minimise environmental pollution.

Most notably, the municipal administration has also rolled out a number of urgent solutions, such as using vacuum cleaners that can clean streets instead of simply manually sweeping or washing them. In addition, the city plans to soon put into operation three waste-to-energy incinerators that feature the latest technology.

Moreover, trucks weighing 1.5 tonnes or more are not permitted to enter the city between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. VOV

Prolonged air pollution forecasted for northern Vietnam

The northern region of Vietnam is experiencing quite severe air pollution and the problem would continue in many days to come.