MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Winter contamination in Santiago

The smog winter season, when cold currents over Santiago block pollution dispersion causing health hazards to the population, has arrived.

Chilean Public health officials anticipate this will not be a particularly severe season since very cold temperatures are not forecasted and so far no highly contagious virus have been detected. Nevertheless officials warn that those suffering from asthma, besides children, pregnant women and elderly people must take the necessary precautions plus limiting physical activity to a minimum particularly when emergency situations are declared.

This week Town Hall officials and representatives from the National Environment Office acting in co ordination declared the first pre emergency situation of the season meaning vehicles without catalytic converters are banned from circulating between 07:00 and 21:00 hours in Santiago.

Similarly regarding public transport special one way main lanes have been determined, and buses, coaches and taxis must keep strictly to them between 07:30 and 10:00 in the morning and from 17:00 to 21:00 hours in the evening.

Besides, a thousand solid fuel combustion sources must stop all activity, and solid fuel heating is it in private homes or public buildings is also banned in the metropolitan area of Santiago. The burning of tires, garbage and any contaminating materials will be severely punished.

The Chilean capital and surrounding area, where most of the country's industry and vehicles are located,. is boxed into the Andes and cold air prevents contaminating emissions from dispersing. In severe winters hospitals have been overrun by respiratory emergencies forcing the closure of schools for weeks and the banning of all sport activities.