March 9, 2026
PMD warns of worsening air quality in western Pakistan due to pollutants from Iran
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that air quality in western Pakistan may worsen due to pollutants carried by winds from Iran, following recent attacks on Iranian oil sites.
March 9, 2026
KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday issued a warning that air quality in the western regions of Pakistan could deteriorate as a result of pollutants being carried by winds from Iran. This advisory follows recent attacks on Iranian oil sites, which have led to significant environmental concerns in the region.
PMD issues caution over transboundary pollution
According to a press release from the PMD, "Due to [the] recent situation in Iran, the winds may carry pollutants and deteriorate air quality in the western parts of the country." The department highlighted the potential for increased air pollution in areas bordering Iran, urging vigilance and preparedness for possible health impacts.
Background: Conflict and environmental fallout in Iran
The warning comes in the wake of ongoing hostilities between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The conflict escalated after US-Israeli strikes on February 28, which resulted in the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Subsequent major airstrikes on March 7 targeted Tehran’s refineries and fuel depots, causing widespread fires and environmental damage.
As reported, the Iranian capital, Tehran, has experienced severe air pollution since the attacks. Thick black smoke from burning oil facilities has blanketed the city, with black, oily rain falling on Sunday. The sun was reportedly obscured by the smoke, and the fires at the oil sites continued to smoulder, creating a toxic atmosphere. CNN correspondent Frederik Pleitgen described the situation at Tehran’s Shahran area, noting the extent of the environmental impact.
Potential impact on Pakistan
The PMD’s advisory underscores concerns that the pollutants generated by these incidents in Iran could be transported by prevailing winds into western Pakistan. The department has called for monitoring and necessary precautions to mitigate the possible effects on air quality and public health in the affected regions.
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