Tashkent air quality hits unhealthy levels as PM2.5 exceeds safety limits

According to data from the IQAir portal, the primary pollutant affecting the city is fine particulate matter, specifically PM2.5. The concentration of these particles reached 108 µg/m³ – a figure that is 21.6 times higher than the annual average value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

In addition to PM2.5, other atmospheric indicators were recorded as follows:

• PM10: 153.1 µg/m³
• Ozone (O₃): 8 µg/m³
• Sulfur dioxide (SO₂): 8 µg/m³
• Carbon monoxide (CO): 45 µg/m³

 Meteorological data at the time of the recording showed an air temperature of approximately +8°C, with a wind speed of 6 km/h and humidity levels at 70%.

Forecasters anticipate a gradual improvement in air quality throughout the day. The AQI is expected to decrease to 179 by 10:00 and further drop to 158 by 12:00. Experts predict the index will fall below the 100 mark during the second half of the day.

Given the high concentration of pollutants, residents and guests of Tashkent are advised to take the following precautionary measures:

• Avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise outdoors.
• Keep windows closed to prevent dust from entering indoor spaces.
• Wear protective masks when outside.
• Use air purifiers within residential and office buildings where possible.

High levels of air pollution were recorded in the capital of Uzbekistan on the morning of March 2, 2026. As of 09:40, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 188, placing the city's atmosphere in the "unhealthy" category.