Air pollution levels in Malé City have remained at dangeous levels for the past five days.
According to data from the Air Quality Monitoring System at Maldives National University’s Center for Maritime Studies in Vilimale', since last Thursday, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the area has exceeded 125, reaching a high of 161 yesterday and remaining above 159 today. The highest recorded level was 153 last Friday.
AQI is measured using a six-color alert system:
- 0-50 (Green Alert): Good
- 51-100 (Yellow Alert): Moderate
- 101-150 (Orange Alert): Dangerous for high-risk individuals
- 151-200 (Red Alert): Dangerous
- 201-300 (Violet Alert): Very dangerous
- Above 301 (Purple Alert): Hazardous
In other parts of the country, air pollution levels have also been high. Data from the air quality monitoring system in Dhaalu atoll Kudahuvadhoo, show AQI levels above 104 for the past five days. In Addu City and Laamu Gan, the index has remained above 88. Shaviyani Funadhoo has recorded AQI levels above 75, while Fuvahmulah City has seen levels exceeding 89.
Authorities have advised people to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when going outside, and keep doors closed to prevent polluted air from entering homes.
During the Iruvai monsoon, haze from northern India often affects Maldives, but experts predict this year’s impact will be more severe. Some have warned that this could lead to disruptions in daily life and an increase in respiratory illnesses.
The pollution consists of industrial smoke and dust, reducing visibility and making transportation more challenging. Air pollution remains a significant issue in Asia and is a leading cause of lung cancer, responsible for approximately seven million deaths globally each year.