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Roadside
API expected to improve tomorrow
The Environmental
Protection Department (EPD) today (Friday) recorded a roadside
Air Pollution Index (API) of 130 in Causeway Bay.
Roadside APIs recorded in Central and Mong Kok were 66 and
57 respectively.
For the
general ambient stations, the APIs ranged from 44 to 68.
Acting
Principal Environmental Protection Officer, Mr Yeung Mo-man
said the nitrogen dioxide in vehicle emissions, particularly
those from diesel vehicles, was not dispersing sufficiently
at urban roadsides with very heavy traffic and surrounded
by high-rise buildings.
"Air
pollution in these locations has thus escalated and reached
the 'very high' band," he said.
He said
when the roadside API exceeded 100 and reached the "very
high" band, people with heart or respiratory illnesses
should avoid prolonged stay in roads and streets with heavy
traffic.
"If
it is necessary to stay in such places, they should reduce
physical exertion as far as possible," he said.
Mr Yeung
said the situation was expected to improve tomorrow (Saturday).
"The
API forecast for tomorrow is 55 to 75 for the general air
quality stations and 60 to 95 for the roadside air quality
stations," he said.
Members
of the public can check the API readings on 2827 8541 or from
EPD's website at http://www.info.gov.hk/epd/.
End/Friday,
February 19, 1999
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