Deputy Director of the Meteorological Department, Anjum Nazir Zaigham, has dismissed rumors claiming that toxic substances and deteriorating air quality in Karachi’s atmosphere are linked to the Iran war. He said that Pakistan’s environment is currently safe from any such threat.
He said that, compared to the past, modern technology now enables authorities to detect toxic materials and smoke clouds more effectively.
Speaking to the media, Anjum Nazir Zaigham said there is no truth to reports circulating on social media suggesting polluted or “black rain” conditions in Karachi. He explained that rainfall is being recorded in various parts of Balochistan under the influence of a new western weather system, and no unusual reports have been received from any area.
He said that another impression gaining traction is that the ongoing conflict situation in the Middle East and Iran could severely affect Karachi’s air quality, but these claims are also baseless.
According to him, temporary increases in the Air Quality Index may occur due to the western weather system entering the country, which can briefly disrupt sea breezes and bring northwesterly winds carrying suspended dust particles. Such changes, he said, would be part of normal weather conditions.
Anjum Nazir Zaigham further stated that the bombing is taking place in northwestern Iran, while Pakistan shares a border with the southern part of Iran, where conditions remain normal. He emphasised that the current situation in Iran is not comparable to the 1992 Gulf War, when large-scale oil well fires caused widespread environmental damage.
He said that no negative effects were observed in the rainfall recorded last night in Balochistan, Punjab, and upper Sindh. However, the Meteorological Department is conducting a detailed analysis of rainwater to ensure that no unusual particles are present.
He added that, unlike in 1992, modern satellite technology is now available, capable of immediately detecting any toxic substances or smoke clouds in the atmosphere. So far, satellite imagery shows Pakistan’s airspace to be completely clear.
The Deputy Director of the Meteorological Department urged the public not to pay attention to rumors, assuring that the government and relevant institutions are closely monitoring the situation. He also noted that rainfall helps cleanse the atmosphere of dust and pollution.
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