Tashkent Ranked as One of the World’s Top 20 Most Polluted Cities in 2024 Air Quality Report
In 2024, the city of Tashkent in Uzbekistan saw an increase in its average PM2.5 level, reaching 31.4 and placing it 19th among the world’s most polluted cities. This marks a deterioration from its 23rd place ranking in 2023 according to the recently released Global Air Quality Report.
The report reveals that Chad is the most polluted country globally, followed by Bangladesh and Pakistan, with PM2.5 levels of 91.8, 78.0, and 73.7 µg/m³, respectively. Uzbekistan’s ranking reflects the overall trend in Central Asia, with Tajikistan ranking 6th globally with a PM2.5 level of 46.3 µg/m³, followed by Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan.
Globally, only 12 countries are able to maintain PM2.5 levels below the World Health Organization’s recommended threshold. Most of these countries are located in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Oceania. Africa, Central, and South Asia continue to be among the most polluted regions worldwide.
The report, based on data from over 8,900 cities across 138 countries, highlights the global challenge of air pollution. Despite an increase in air monitoring tools, many regions, including Western Asia, face data gaps that hinder efforts to address air quality issues.
Experts warn of the health risks associated with high PM2.5 levels, including asthma, cancer, and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Prolonged exposure to pollution can also lead to pregnancy complications, heart conditions, allergies, and cognitive disorders in children.
In Tashkent, concerns have been raised about the impact of coal and fuel oil use on air quality, with reports indicating a rise in respiratory diseases among children. Otolaryngologist Bobur Zulunov has observed a surge in allergic rhinitis cases among children and recommends testing for specific allergens.
Despite these challenges, officials have not issued public warnings recommending the use of protective masks outdoors. As awareness of the impact of air pollution on public health grows, addressing these issues becomes increasingly urgent to protect the well-being of communities around the world.
