Air pollution decreases in Georgia

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.

Eight stations in Tbilisi, Batumi, Kutaisi and Rustavi are monitoring air quality. 

All the air monitoring stations record a decreased volume of air pollutants,” said Megrelishvili, noting nitrogen dioxide is down in particular – a pollutant caused by vehicle fuels. 

However, Megrelishvili said that the share of particle pollution (small particles of dust and soot) in the air is still high. He noted that it is caused by construction and industrial sectors as these sectors have not stopped working despite the coronavirus outbreak.

Traffic in Georgia has decreased due to the restrictions the government put in place to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.

• Tbilisi streets deserted as citizens, visitors stay at home to avoid coronavirus risks

Mini-buses are not serving passengers neither in Tbilisi, nor between cities. Meanwhile, flights have been suspended.

Also, many people are working remotely as the populace has been urged to stay home.