Acidic Smog at the Turkmenistan–Iran Border: A Threat to Health and the Right to Information

The Human Rights Platform of the Civil Movement “Dayanç” (Turkmenistan) expresses serious concern regarding reports of an ухудшение экологической ситуации in the border areas between Turkmenistan and Iran. According to information from an independent source, in several regions — including Kaka, Serakhs, Bereket, Magtymguly, and Esenguly — a dense fog with a sharp odor has been observed, which local residents describe as “acidic smog.” According to residents, following precipitation, people experience worsening health conditions, and complaints related to well-being have increased, along with growing anxiety among the population. Residents associate this phenomenon with military activity in Iran, particularly missile strikes and fires at strategic facilities, which may have led to the release of harmful substances into the atmosphere. There are also concerns about the presence of toxic gases and air contamination. At the same time, Turkmen authorities have not provided clear and timely information to the public about the situation, which further increases concern and mistrust. People are reportedly afraid to обращаться to state institutions and are forced to live in conditions of uncertainty. The lack of transparency and timely public information in the context of a potential environmental threat may constitute a violation of fundamental human rights, including: the right to health the right to a safe environment the right to access information In addition, there are reports of internal displacement, with residents of some border areas leaving their homes in search of safer conditions. The Human Rights Platform “Dayanç” emphasizes that in such situations, the state is obliged to: promptly inform the population about potential risks conduct environmental monitoring and publish the results ensure measures to protect public health guarantee the right to access reliable information We call on international organizations and environmental bodies to pay attention to this situation and to support transparency and safety for the people of Turkmenistan. Source: Azatlyk Radiosy — “Acidic fog formed in the air near Turkmenistan’s border with Iran” https://share.google/XVmpLyvFfk0r3raMh⁠�