Air pollution risks increase in Hanoi as winter approaches

Hanoi and northern Vietnam are facing rising air pollution levels as the region enters the dry winter season. Low wind speeds and dry conditions are expected to prevent pollutants from dispersing, leading to accumulation near the ground.

Recent data from IQAir ranked Hanoi as the third most polluted city globally. To combat this, authorities are focusing on three primary emission sources: traffic dust, construction activities, and uncontrolled outdoor waste burning.

Significant contributors include dust from major infrastructure projects, such as the upgrades on Highway 6 and the 2.5 Ring Road, where construction sites often lack adequate shielding. Additionally, industrial emissions from facilities like the Van Dien phosphate plant and dust from unmanaged construction debris on public roads continue to impact air quality.