 |
Authorities said levels of toxic particles in the air were about 11 times higher than safe levels for two consecutive days, creating a health hazard.
The government has recommended that companies allow pregnant women and persons over 60 not to work, that construction companies reduce outdoor work, and that sports and other outdoor activities be banned on days of high pollution.
The government said it would reduce the use of its official vehicles by half, and ordered the Health and Welfare ministries to provide housing for homeless people and increase emergency services and home visits for people with chronic illnesses.
North Macedonia has been one of Europe's most polluted countries for years. Health authorities estimate that more than 3,000 people die each year as a result of air pollution, which is largely the result of heavy use of home-burning stoves during cold winters, an old fleet of cars in some areas.