By bnm Tehran bureau

Tehran regional governorate has imposed 24-hour emergency restrictions to combat worsening air pollution, whilst schools and offices will remain open on November 11, Eghtesad Online reported on November 10.

Capital city residents have faced repeated periods of unhealthy air this year. Since the start of the current Iranian calendar year, Tehran has experienced six days of clean air, 121 acceptable days, 95 days unhealthy for sensitive groups, eight unhealthy days and two very unhealthy days. On some days, the air quality index reached 152, classified as unhealthy for all groups.

These latest measures, which have become increasingly common in recent years, reflect a broader crisis as Iran battles to secure usable gas supplies, hazardous pollution levels, and electricity rationing, even in central Tehran. Local power companies have been forced to implement periodic shutdowns across the capital and other regions, with outages lasting several hours.

The governorate issued official notices announcing immediate measures, including a 24-hour ban on sand and gravel mining production activities in 10 districts of Tehran Province. All school sports activities in the same 10 districts have been suspended, though schools themselves will not close.

Employees with special conditions in the 10 districts may work remotely, provided they obtain documentation and coordinate with their managers, the governorate stated. These include employees with underlying respiratory and cardiac diseases, and working women with young children. An informed education source told Mehr that decisions are made based on a combined pattern.

When the air quality index reaches a level that threatens the health of sensitive groups and meteorological forecasts indicate no effective wind or precipitation, the Air Pollution Emergency Working Group decides on closures or remote work.

Atmospheric stability and the city’s lack of natural ventilation are as influential in decision-making as pollution intensity, the source said.

Over 80% of Tehran’s air pollution sources are attributed to vehicles. Without controlling pollution sources, the likelihood of repeated closures every cold season increases. Permanent reduction of closures requires policies such as transport modernisation, improved fuel quality and enhanced public transport.

The emergency shutdown comes amid ongoing concerns about water shortages in Tehran due to the ongoing drought, which coincides with widespread pollution. Areas of the capital have begun experiencing water shortages as the local water company starts rationing its water supplies.