The most immediate consequence of sustained exposure to these levels of air pollution include exposure to airborne pollutants such as nitrous and sulphur oxides, contaminated particulate matter, and volatile compounds that can be carried over long distances by the wind to surrounding residential areas. The main wind direction will influence the area most affected by air pollution. There are many cars now that Ruaka is becoming more affluent”, James says. The public health officer at Kiambaa Sub County Hospital Chege Kibe told the Star that unfortunately there exists no data that can be used to ascertain whether the air pollution levels seen in Ruaka are causing actual harm to the area’s inhabitants. Keeping track of where the air pollution is most serious, as well as the times when this happens, is a matter of urgency, and this data can then be used to improve the overall well-being of the people living and working in Ruaka.

Source: The Star March 11, 2019 02:26 UTC