Natural dust has been identified as the primary source of atmospheric air pollution in Tashkent between September 28 and October 6. This was announced by Doniyor Turgunov, Director of the Hydrometeorological Research Institute under Green University, during a briefing on October 2 dedicated to the causes and consequences of autumn air pollution.

According to laboratory analyses of the chemical composition of PM2.5 samples collected across several districts of the capital, including Yunusabad, Almazar, and Mirzo-Ulugbek, natural dust-related components accounted for 52 to 78 percent—averaging 64 percent—at the beginning of October. Furthermore, dust components reportedly made up 47 to 52 percent of the samples on October 13 and 14.

Meanwhile, official statistics indicate that between January 1 and October 19, the average concentration of PM2.5 decreased by 28 percent, while PM10 levels dropped by 32 percent compared to the same period last year. During the first 19 days of October, these figures allegedly fell by 40 and 56 percent, respectively.

Authorities claim that unlike the previous year, when the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached "harmful" levels for 11 days, no such days have been recorded so far this year. Additionally, the number of days with "moderate" or better air quality regarding PM2.5 reportedly increased from 21 to 38.

Source: www.gazeta.uz