Iran MPs take symbolic dust storm protest to parliament floor

MPs representing Khuzestan, Ilam and Kermanshah provinces attended an open session of the chamber on Sunday with protective face masks on in a symbolic move to protest against poor air quality in southern cities and what they called the poor performance of the related government bodies.

Meanwhile, in remarks on the quality of air in southern Iran, top MP Ali Larijani said that officials should pay serious attention to the question of particulates which has created pain for people in southern and western provinces, although the problem has its roots in the deserts of neighboring countries.

The parliament speaker also said that it takes extensive measures by the government to make up for certain shortcomings at home and pursue an active diplomacy to galvanize the collective will of neighboring countries.

A dust storm which has disrupted life in Khuzestan Province over the past two weeks has prompted the government to order schools closed for three days and to shut down public offices for one day.