Experts: Killer air pollution climbing in emerging cities

Scientists have warned that fast-growing cities in Asia and South America have seen the level of noxious pollutants grow over the past 20 years.

Unlike in Europe, where big cities are trying to improve air quality, rapidly growing cities in emerging nations have seen air pollution get worse, AFP reports.

Liisa Jalkanen, atmospheric environment research chief at the World Meteorological Organisation, says that particulate matter is of "great concern" in cities.

Around two million people die prematurely every year as a result of air pollution, while many more see their health deteriorate as a result, according to the World Health Organisation.

Ms Jalkanen claims that Asian cities such as Karachi, New Delhi, Kathmandu, Dacca, Shanghai, Beijing and Mumbai "exceed all the limits".

The expert adds that a number of cities in South America - including Lima, Santiago and Bogota - also do, while Cairo is the "worst city" in Africa.

Every year, March 23rd celebrates World Meteorological Day and this year's theme is weather, climate and the air we breathe.