Iran: Air pollution in Tehran sends hundreds to hospitals
Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
Publication Date | 31 December 2014 |
Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iran: Air pollution in Tehran sends hundreds to hospitals, 31 December 2014, available at: http://www.refworld.org/docid/54be13f324.html [accessed 6 January 2016] |
Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
December 31, 2014
Severe air pollution in Iran's capital, Tehran, has put nearly 400 people in hospitals with heart and respiratory problems.
Hassan Abbas, a Tehran emergency services official, said on December 30 that the city's dirty air had caused another 1,434 people to be treated in their homes for similar problems.
Tehran officials have urged sick and elderly people to stay indoors and away from heavy traffic areas.
The Iranian capital – which has a population of some 12 million – has some of the most-polluted air among the world's major cities.
Tehran's air quality worsens in the winter when an inversion traps cold air and pollutants above the city – which has a high elevation and is surrounded by mountains.
Other Iranian cities, such as Isfahan and Mashhad, have also experienced high-pollution days in recent weeks.
Based on reporting by AFP and IRNA
Link to original story on RFE/RL website