‘Impossible to live’: Italy’s Po Valley blighted air among worst in Europe

Cremona residents say life becoming unbearable amid pollution from industry, cars and farm animal waste

For almost two weeks, the inhabitants of Crotta d’Adda, a village in the heart of the Po Valley, have barricaded themselves indoors.

Emanating from the vast area of farmland directly adjacent to their homes is an unbearable and potentially noxious stench, which has caused vomiting, breathing difficulties, dizziness, swollen eyes and headaches.