WANA (Nov 30) – Tehran, the capital of Iran, recorded one of its heaviest air-pollution days today. A city that ranked 20th on the list of the world’s most polluted cities last night has now climbed to 5th place.

 

With an Air Quality Index of 179, Tehran has surpassed cities like New Delhi and Karachi—places that are usually at the top of this list.

This spike in pollution comes as the Iranian capital enters its eighth consecutive day under alert. As unhealthy conditions persist, schools and universities have been closed, and part of the government workforce is operating remotely. Despite these measures, air quality remains in the “unhealthy” range for all age groups and segments of society.

 

There is, however, a glimmer of hope in meteorological forecasts. According to experts, a rain system will enter Iran tomorrow and is expected to affect Tehran on Tuesday. Mehdi Pirhadi, a member of Tehran’s City Council, stated that “with wind and rainfall, pollutant concentrations will decrease.”

 

Still, experts warn that even if pollution levels drop temporarily, the continuation of current conditions could pose serious risks to public health and the daily lives of residents.

Buildings are enveloped in smog following the increase in air pollution in Tehran, Iran, November 22, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)