Title: East Azerbaijan Province Implements Proactive Measures in Response to Air Quality Concerns
Subheading: Shift to Remote Learning and Industrial Halts Enacted to Safeguard Public Health
In a decisive move to protect public health, the emergency management task force of East Azerbaijan Province has announced a series of measures for several urban centers. For the cities of Tabriz, Osku, and Bonab, all schools across all grade levels will transition to remote learning.
This shift to online education via the SHAD platform for two days is a direct response to the current air quality conditions, which have reached levels considered unhealthy for the general population. The primary objective is to minimize the health risks associated with outdoor exposure for students and educational staff.
A Multi-Faceted Government Response
The provincial task force’s strategy extends beyond the education sector, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to the situation. Key decisions include:
- Free Public Transit: To reduce vehicular emissions, public transportation in Tabriz, including the metro and bus services, will operate free of charge for two days. Citizens are strongly encouraged to use these services and limit personal vehicle use.
- Industrial Activity Regulation: Polluting industries in the vicinity of the affected cities have been mandated to temporarily halt operations.
- Traffic Control: Law enforcement has been directed to prevent smoke-emitting vehicles from entering the urban area of Tabriz.
- Public Health Advisory: The public, especially individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, the elderly, and children, are advised to avoid non-essential travel and refrain from outdoor physical activities.
Data-Driven Decision Making
The measures are supported by official environmental data. The Air Quality Monitoring System of the East Azerbaijan Department of Environment reported an index of 161 for Tabriz, firmly placing it in the “unhealthy” red category for all residents. Furthermore, meteorological forecasts indicate that these conditions are expected to persist.
The province’s swift and coordinated action underscores a commitment to citizen welfare, prioritizing health and safety while maintaining educational continuity through established digital infrastructure. The situation will be continuously monitored, with in-person school and industrial activities resuming upon significant improvement in air quality.