Coronavirus lockdown gives Georgia a breathing break as air pollution decreases country wide
The National Environment Agency reported that the content of nitrogen dioxide in the air quality was particularly reduced on the streets where traffic was intense. Photo: Nino Alavidze/Agenda.ge.
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Air pollution has decreased in the capital city of Tbilisi as well as in the whole country, announces the National Environment Agency of Georgia.
The levels of atmospheric air pollution are significantly reduced. The content of nitrogen dioxide in the air is particularly reduced, which is likely to be related to the reduction in emissions from vehicles", read the press-release published by the agency today.
Eight monitoring stations in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and Rustavi sample and test air quality in Georgia.
The National Environment Agency reported that the content of nitrogen dioxide in the air quality was particularly reduced on the streets where traffic was intense, including the avenues of Tsereteli and Kazbegi.
Traffic in Georgia has decreased due to the restrictions the government put in place to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
Public transport and mini-buses are not serving passengers neither in Tbilisi, nor between cities. Flights have also been suspended.
In addition, many people are working remotely as the populace has been urged to stay home.
Air pollution has decreased in Georgia, reports Head of the Air Department of the National Environment Agency Noe Megrelishvili. Since March 15, air pollutants have not exceeded acceptable levels.
A new, fifth air quality monitoring station has been installed on Agmashenebeli Avenue, on Ilia Square, in Tbilisi that will provide information on atmospheric air quality 24 hours a day.
Vehicle exhaust is the main cause of air pollution in Georgia’s capital city of Tbilisi, says the report of the parliamentary committee on environmental protection and natural resources.
Georgia’s National Agency of Environment has reported based on the latest data of the World Health Organisation (WHO) that the air pollution in the country equals the average air pollution levels of Eastern European countries.
Georgia has received $15,000 worth of locally-produced disposable medical gowns and coverall suits, as well as IR thermometers from the US Embassy's Office of Defence Cooperation (ODC) to help the country manage the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 63-day state of emergency has come to an end at 00:00 on May 23, lifting movement and other coronavirus-related restrictions in Georgia. However, the restriction banning more than three people in a car will be maintained for taxis. No public and municipal transport will be available at this point.