Tehran authorities forced to temporarily close dozens of factories over pollution violations; MP projects daily loss of 800 billion rials

News agencies
Published: 12.13.12

Tehran authorities were recently forced to temporarily shut down 40 industrial facilities, including cement and tar production plants due to alarming level of air pollution.

Deputy Head of Iran’s Environment Protection Organization (IEPO) Ali-Mohammad Shaeri told the Mehr News Agency that as part of the measures taken to control the situation, Tehran’s main cement factory was allowed to use just 40% of its capacity until further notice.

One MP projected that the daily loss to the Iranian economy stood at 800 billion rials (roughly $65 million).

The extreme pollution levels also prompted the temporary closure of schools, universities and government offices in the Iranian capital last week.

Hospitals and banks remained open, but were placed on alert.

Residents were also advised to avoid any unnecessary travel.

IRNA new Agency reported that schools and universities in Arak, main city of the Markazi province, had been closed due to pollution as well.

http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4317343,00.html