Air is heavily polluted in Mostar after a fire at a landfill: Staying outdoors is risky for everyone

The city of Mostar has been grappling with dangerously high levels of air pollution due to a fire at a waste landfill, which has led to severe health concerns and prompted emergency measures. According to data from the International Air Quality Index (IQAir) and the Federal Hydrometeorological Service of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), the air quality in Mostar deteriorated significantly following the fire, which began on the previous day. The situation escalated rapidly, prompting authorities to declare an emergency state and issue warnings to residents.

The air quality index recorded at the University campus in Mostar reached 210, placing it in the category of "very unhealthy" according to the American scale. This level of pollution is primarily attributed to fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, which consists of microscopic particles such as dust, smoke, soot, ash, and other harmful substances that can be inhaled into the lungs. These tiny particles are particularly dangerous because they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and even enter the bloodstream, posing serious risks to human health. The presence of these pollutants has made outdoor activities hazardous, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from heart or lung conditions.

The Federal Hydrometeorological Service of BiH corroborated the alarming findings, confirming that the air quality was extremely poor. As a result, the local government issued an alert advising citizens, particularly those living near the landfill, about potential worsening of symptoms and exacerbation of existing illnesses, including asthma. The warning also extended to the general population, emphasizing the negative impact of prolonged exposure to polluted air.

The fire, which started on the previous day, continues to burn at the waste disposal site, generating thick smoke and an unpleasant odor. Firefighters have struggled to extinguish the blaze due to its deep penetration into the layers of accumulated waste. The ongoing fire has created a persistent haze over the area, further contributing to the deterioration of air quality and raising public concern.

Residents have expressed frustration and fear over the situation, with many reporting difficulty breathing and experiencing irritation in their eyes and throats. Local officials have acknowledged the severity of the crisis and are working to coordinate efforts to control the fire and mitigate its effects on public health. However, the challenge remains significant, given the nature of the waste materials involved and the environmental conditions that have allowed the fire to persist.

Looking ahead, the focus will likely shift towards long-term solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future. This includes improving waste management practices, enhancing monitoring systems for early detection of fires, and increasing community awareness about the dangers of improper waste disposal. In the immediate term, continued collaboration between local authorities, environmental agencies, and healthcare providers will be essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of Mostar.