Air quality in the latest 24 hours in Hanoi has seen half of the readings reach the unhealthy level (purple), indicating worse pollution, according to the Hanoi Agency of Environmental Protection (AEP).

Data: AEP. Graphic: Anh Kiet

On December 9 afternoon, the AEP said that the air quality index (AQI) measured at 10 monitoring stations in Hanoi was in the range of from 132 to 221.

Hanoi’s AQI increased considerably and was mostly at the 'bad' and 'very bad' level, with the highest readings recorded at Minh Khai (221), Hang Dau (215), and Pham Van Dong (213).

Only Tan Mai and Kim Lien had AQI below 150. Kim Lien’s AQI was recorded at 132, the lowest reading but still at the bad level.

The AEP repeated the recommendations that local residents should follow air quality information where they are living and working before going out to prevent diseases.

Data: AEP. Table: Anh Kiet

Besides, sensitive groups including children, the elderly and people with respiratory diseases should limit their time outdoors.

In case of going out, people should use PM2.5 dust-proof face mask which meets the standard. In particular, pupils should not participate in outdoor activities.

When travelling on roads, people need to strictly follow traffic laws to reduce traffic congestion.

The Hanoi police should strengthen traffic regulation in some areas with high traffic density such as Pham Van Dong, Hang Dau, Minh Khai, among others.

In suburban areas, people need to reduce burning waste and agricultural by-products.

Information on the capital city’s air quality is continuously updated at the website: https://moitruongthudo.vn/ and https://airhanoi.hanoi.gov.vn/.