High air pollution levels recorded in central Yerevan

Air quality in central Yerevan has reached unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, officials warn.

The Armenian capital’s mayor, Tigran Avinyan, said that as of 11 a.m. local time on Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city centre stood at 105, a level considered unhealthy for people with respiratory conditions.

Avinyan said the rise in pollution was partly due to the city’s geographical location, which can trap airborne particles in the central areas.

“Although this level of pollution does not pose a significant short-term risk to the general public, it can affect individuals with breathing difficulties,” he said in a statement.

The mayor advised residents with respiratory problems to limit time spent outdoors and avoid physical activity outside.

According to monitoring data, other districts of Yerevan currently have better air quality.