Iraqi PM orders investigation into sulphur emissions affecting Baghdad and surrounding areas

BAGHDAD – Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani on Saturday directed the formation of a specialized committee to investigate the recurring sulphur emissions and pollution affecting Baghdad and nearby governorates from the night before into the early morning hours.

In a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s media office, Al-Sudani called for the committee to be led by an advisor from the Ministry of Environment, with representatives from the Ministry of Oil, the Ministry of Electricity, the Baghdad Municipality, and the Directorate of Environmental Protection and Improvement for the central region. The committee is tasked with identifying the causes of the emissions and addressing the pollution. Al-Sudani emphasized the need to “find comprehensive solutions” and requested the committee submit its findings within two days.

The Ministry of Environment weighed in on the issue, suggesting the sulphur-like smell could be caused by “changes in air quality due to the incomplete combustion of high-sulphur fuel from various activities and the burning of waste at unauthorized landfills,” according to spokesperson Luay Al-Mukhtar.

“This phenomenon may be due to changes in air quality caused by the incomplete burning of high-sulphur fuels in several activities and the burning of waste in informal landfills,” Al-Mukhtar told the state-run channel Al-Iraqiya.

He further explained that lower temperatures have worsened the situation by causing combustion gases to remain close to the ground rather than dispersing upwards. Al-Mukhtar advised the public to “take simple steps to protect public health, such as limiting outdoor activities during these times and keeping windows closed to ensure good indoor air quality.”

He also recommended that individuals with respiratory issues “take indoor breaks or wear masks if they need to go outside as a precautionary measure.”

Al-Mukhtar cautioned against relying on satellite images circulating on social media, explaining that “satellite images provide a general view but don’t offer precise data on pollutant concentrations at ground level. For an accurate assessment, we rely on fixed and mobile ground stations that measure real concentrations.”

“We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed,” Al-Mukhtar concluded, reassuring the public that “there’s no need for alarm—just follow these simple guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.”