LifestyleDrug traces in the air rise by 60% in Rome, study finds
Drug traces in the air rise by 60% in Rome, study finds
ed. IKO
6 March 2024 14:51
The findings of these new studies and analyses were reported by "Il Messaggero." The Roman newspaper underscored the pervasive drug presence in the air of the Eternal City, drawing on data collected from a monitoring station in the Cinecitta district.
Beyond the usual pollutants, the air in Rome has been found to contain cocaine and cannabinoids, substances derived from cannabis.
These studies have shown a significant 60 percent increase in cocaine levels over the last ten years.
"It doesn't surprise me," confessed lawyer Tiziana Siano, who represents a social association, pointing to the rampant narcotics trade.
For the first time, the focus of analysis in the Italian capital has been on the presence of psychotropic substances in the air rather than sewage. The Department for Combatting Drugs at the Council of Ministers' Office funded these groundbreaking studies.
The presence of drugs in Rome's air is not a recent phenomenon. We had reported on it several years ago. In 2007, a notably high concentration of cocaine and Indian hemp was detected in the vicinity of the Roman university. Drug traces were also found in the capital's parks.
Research from that period also noted that airborne cocaine levels spiked during the winter months.
Rome stands as one of the world's top tourist destinations. Last year alone, the Eternal City welcomed an unprecedented number of over 35 million visitors.
From June to August 2023, the Colosseum has attracted more than 2.2 million visitors. Essential attractions for tourists also include the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Vatican.
Source: PAP
