In response, Minister of Natural Resources Meder Mashiev stated that this ranking is not authoritative. He noted that there is one website that monitors air pollution levels, and the data from this resource is used to compile the ranking.
“In recent years, air quality in Bishkek has improved. Indeed, the situation is not as the sensors indicate, which place Kyrgyzstan in first place for air pollution. However, the problem persists. To provide the population with accurate information, Kyrgyzhydromet is installing its own sensors to monitor air quality. In 2026, the installation of automatic stations in various cities is also planned,” the minister added.
Kydyraliev also expressed doubt that Bishkek could hold the top position for air pollution levels in the world. He reminded that the population of the capital is 1.3 million people, while in other megacities this figure reaches 10 million. “We need to address this situation. Perhaps the reason lies in technical malfunctions, which causes public outcry. It is important to provide the population with accurate information,” he addressed Mashiev.
