Story perspectives

Tehran's Smog Crisis: 161 Deaths Daily Amid Power Shortages

11/25/2025

Summary

Story summary

Tehran faces very unhealthy smog as authorities burn mazut at 14 power plants due to chronic mismanagement and natural gas shortages.
This practice releases pollutants and is linked to an estimated 161 deaths daily from related health issues.
Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi confirms mazut will be used as needed during winter, reflecting the government's prioritization of power generation over public health.
Wildfires threaten the UNESCO-listed Hyrcanian forests, though they are reportedly under control.
The annual cost of Iran's air pollution is about $17.2 billion.

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Story summary

Tehran faces very unhealthy smog as authorities burn mazut at 14 power plants due to chronic mismanagement and natural gas shortages.
This practice releases pollutants and is linked to an estimated 161 deaths daily from related health issues.
Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi confirms mazut will be used as needed during winter, reflecting the government's prioritization of power generation over public health.
Wildfires threaten the UNESCO-listed Hyrcanian forests, though they are reportedly under control.
The annual cost of Iran's air pollution is about $17.2 billion.