Muscat: Air pollution is a concern that people tend to worry about especially in the areas around landfills and factories.
The public can now clear their doubt with the new platform from the Environment Authority, EA of Oman.
The Environment Authority has announced the activation of the “Naqi” air quality indicator display platform, and has invited the public to explore and follow the platform and benefit from the available data to improve the quality of life. The link is naqi.ea.gov.om.
This platform, the Air quality index Oman provides updated and accurate information about air quality in various regions. It aims to increase environmental awareness and enable individuals to make appropriate decisions to preserve their health and the health of their families.
The authority stated, “We invite you to explore the platform and leverage the available data to improve the quality of life in our community. Follow us to get continuous updates and participate with us in building a cleaner and better environment.”
To ensure air quality, the Environment Authority of Oman has monitoring stations, which is part of the national air quality monitoring network which was expanded further by provision of two air quality monitoring mobile units to be transported and used for monitoring air pollution in selected areas.
According to the Environment Authority, the number of stationary monitoring devices in Al Fahal Port, Al Rusayl Industrial Area and Sohar Industrial Area were increased so as to strengthen the capacity of the authority for monitoring various types of pollution and to compare their levels with the acceptable national and international levels to avoid their adverse impacts on health and the public environment. In addition, these stations have been equipped with new monitoring units and devices in addition to increase in their numbers to reach the various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman.
The Basic Law of Oman states that the protection of the environment and prevention of pollution are considered as a social principle and responsibility of the State. Meanwhile, the legislation is in place with the Law for Protection of Environment and Prevention of Pollution, according to which strict penalties can be issued for the release of environmental pollutants and discharge of effluents, both in the land and the maritime territory of Oman.
The Environment Authority has recommended various ways each member of the society can contribute toward the prevention of air pollution. Some of these measures include commuting responsibly by reducing number of trips one takes in their car. Practices that are to be avoided are burning of leaves, trash, and other materials.
On the other hand, the Authority is encouraging the public to be more involved in initiatives such as increasing in planting of trees.
The Pollution Operations Monitoring Centre (hotline) is 24693666 and the Toll free number is 80071999.
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