Full Breakdown
Tehran's Air Quality Crisis: The Impact of Mazut Burning Amid Energy Shortages
11/25/2025, 5:22:18 AM
Current Situation in Tehran
Tehran is currently experiencing severe air pollution, exacerbated by the Iranian government's reliance on mazut, a high-sulfur petroleum residue, to generate electricity. This practice has persisted for years, particularly during periods of natural gas shortages, which are attributed to chronic mismanagement and aging infrastructure. As a result, Tehran has recently ranked among the world's most polluted cities, with pollution levels exceeding 200 on the air quality index, classified as "very unhealthy." The Iran Meteorological Organization has issued health warnings for several cities, including Karaj, Arak, Isfahan, Tabriz, Mashhad, Ahvaz, and Urmia, as air quality continues to deteriorate.
Government Response and Energy Policy
President Masoud Pezeshkian's administration has continued the practice of burning mazut to prevent power blackouts, a strategy employed by previous governments as well. Reports indicate that approximately 21 million liters (5.55 million gallons) of mazut are consumed daily by mid-November. Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi confirmed that mazut-burning power plants are considered a low priority, emphasizing the need to conserve liquid fuel for essential use during the winter months. However, Aliabadi did not address the significant health impacts associated with this practice.
Health Implications and Economic Costs
The health consequences of the ongoing air pollution are severe, with an estimated 161 deaths per day attributed to conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections linked to poor air quality. The Iranian government has projected the economic costs of air pollution to reach $17.2 billion by March, factoring in healthcare expenses, premature deaths, lost productivity, and school closures. This situation has led to the temporary closure of schools and offices in several cities, although Tehran has yet to announce similar measures.
Criticism and Public Sentiment
Critics of the government's energy policy highlight the contradiction between previous claims of reducing mazut usage and the current reliance on this harmful fuel. In November 2024, state media celebrated a temporary halt to mazut burning, framing it as a responsible choice to avoid "producing poison." However, as air quality worsens, public frustration is mounting over the government's failure to prioritize health and environmental concerns.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mazut-burning power plants are low priority because liquid fuel is valuable and we prefer to use it as a last resort,” — Abbas Aliabadi, Energy Minister
- “2bn due to healthcare expenses, premature deaths, lost productivity, school closures and business shutdowns.” — Official statement
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Iranian government acknowledges the health impacts of air pollution, there is a lack of comprehensive public health data detailing the long-term effects on the population. Additionally, the extent of public dissent regarding the government's energy policies remains underreported, leaving gaps in understanding the full scope of the crisis.
As Tehran grapples with its air quality crisis, the reliance on mazut raises critical questions about the balance between energy needs and public health, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions.
