Tehran, Iran, June 29
By Mehdi Sepahvand – Trend:
The Iranian government has apologized from the people for not being able to tackle the problem of dust storms that have been sweeping the western parts of the country over the past several years.
“Tackling the dust may not fall within the tenure of the incumbent government,” Deputy Director of Environment Department Said Motesaddi told Fars news agency June 29.
Twenty three provinces of Iran are currently affected by the hazardous waves of dust that enter the country especially from Iraq. However, there are also local spots inside Iran that send dust particles into the air, which is then carried over to residence zones.
The official said the government has gone as far as to identify the sources of the dust inside the country.
“I am sorry, however, that much of the dust comes from abroad and we cannot do much about it,” he said.
Dust coming from Iraq and Syria deserts disturb daily life in western and southwestern parts of Iran cancelling flights at Abadan's international airport, IRNA reported June 17.
Airport authorities in Abadan in southwestern Iran had to cancel flights for the day due to the poor visibility caused by increased dust in the air.
On very dusty days health officials warn residents with heart and respiratory problems to stay at home.