Despite recent visually clear days, the capital is facing a serious public health problem: air pollution. Recent measurements indicate a sharp rise in pollution levels, exceeding legal safety limits.
Environmental experts report that poor air quality has persisted for over a month, with a significant deterioration in recent days.
Ilir Morina, environmental specialist, stated that on Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 174, corresponding to approximately 100 µg/m³ of PM2.5 particles. Levels of PM10 and other harmful gases were also high, exceeding both Kosovo legal limits and European directives. The pollution poses a serious health risk, particularly in the evenings when air circulation is low.
Morina urged the authorities to implement urgent and long-term measures, including:
- Upgrading filters at thermal power plants
- Strict vehicle inspections and banning cars without catalytic converters
- Regulating pellet products to prevent burning of mixed materials and plastics
Shkumbin Shala, air quality expert, emphasized that air protection is a shared responsibility between institutions and citizens. He called on residents to:
- Avoid burning waste or wet materials that release harmful gases and dust
- Use public transportation more frequently to reduce emissions
The Hydrometeorological Institute monitors air quality in real time, providing transparent public data, and notes that current weather conditions are worsening pollution levels.
Health experts warn that polluted air poses serious risks, particularly for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, and advised extra caution for vulnerable groups including the elderly, children, and those with chronic heart or lung conditions.
