Sarajevo chokes on Europe's worst pollution crisis

Thick smog grips Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, creating a hazardous environment for residents. The city is currently facing one of Europe’s worst pollution crises, with many struggling to breathe.

According to IQAir, which tracks global air quality, Sarajevo has ranked as Europe’s most polluted city, surpassing even New Delhi in pollution levels. The city's air quality has reached hazardous levels, causing significant health concerns.

Local residents reported difficulty breathing, with many worried about vulnerable family members. "After getting out into this kind of air, it is impossible to avoid feeling a tightness in your nose, throat, and lungs. You do not have to be an expert to recognise its negative impact on health," said Sarajevo resident Suncica Kovacevic.

Air quality expert Muris Spahic emphasized that long-term improvements are essential and can only be achieved by reducing fossil fuel use and easing traffic congestion. “The citizens of Sarajevo breathe this polluted air. The issue in Sarajevo can only be resolved by phasing out fossil fuels and alleviating traffic congestion, as the existing road infrastructure is inadequate to support the volume of vehicles circulating in the city,” Spahic said.

Despite previous promises to ban older cars and suspend outdoor activities during poor air quality, these measures have yet to be implemented by the local government. As the pollution crisis intensifies, public health concerns continue to grow in Sarajevo, with residents calling for urgent action.

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