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Air quality across Sri Lanka continues to remain slightly unhealthy, according to real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, raising concerns for public health.
Several areas in the Jaffna, Chilaw, Puttalam, Galle, Kandy, and Colombo districts have been identified as affected, with pollution levels exceeding healthy thresholds.
A senior official from the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) told Daily Mirror that the decline in air quality is largely due to polluted air masses drifting from the Indian region, combined with local emission sources and prevailing atmospheric conditions that restrict the dispersion of pollutants.
The official noted that these conditions are expected to persist until around March next year, although temporary improvements may occur from time to time depending on weather patterns.
“This situation could have a significant impact on children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses. The public is advised to take necessary precautions,” the official said.
Meanwhile, air quality in India remains poor, with major cities recording “unhealthy” to “very unhealthy” AQI levels as of December 30, 2025. High concentrations of PM2.5 particles continue to pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.
By 10:30 a.m. (IST), several Indian urban centres had AQI readings exceeding 200, prompting health advisories. Residents have been urged to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when outside, and use air purifiers indoors where possible.
According to global data, India’s average PM2.5 concentration in 2024 stood at 50.6 µg/m³—nearly 11 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended annual guideline of 5 µg/m³—placing the country fifth globally in the 2024 World Air Quality Report.
