SARAJEVO, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- The government of Sarajevo Canton imposed traffic restrictions and a series of emergency measures on Saturday after heavy smog engulfed the Bosnian capital.
At the proposal of the Ministry of Utilities, Infrastructure, Spatial Planning, Construction and Environmental Protection, the cantonal government declared an alert for Zone A, covering Novi Grad, Centar, Stari Grad, Novo Sarajevo and Ilidza, while a "Warning" episode remains in effect for Zones B and C. The decision followed an assessment by an expert body based on air quality measurements and weather forecasts.
Local monitoring data showed that daily average concentrations of PM10 particles in parts of Zone A exceeded 200 micrograms per cubic meter, while elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide were also recorded. On Saturday afternoon, PM2.5 concentration reached 122.5 micrograms per cubic meter, more than 24 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline level, placing air quality in the unhealthy category.
Due to stagnant weather conditions, including temperature inversion, fog and weak winds, authorities said pollutants are likely to continue accumulating. Under the emergency plan, vehicles with EURO 3 engines or lower are banned from circulation in Zone A, with exemptions for emergency services and public transport. Public gatherings and outdoor sports activities have also been temporarily suspended. ■