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Traffic and Pollution in Kandovan Tunnel Left 23 Poisoned

Jan 30, 2026 January 30, 2026 2 min read 📰 Radio Farda
📋 Key Takeaway

Heavy traffic and pollution in the Kandovan Tunnel led to the poisoning of 23 individuals in Iran. The Red Crescent assured that the victims are recovering and advised citizens to avoid the congested route during the Eid al-Fitr holidays. This incident highlights ongoing traffic issues and public health concerns during holiday travel.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: The poisoning incident highlights critical traffic and pollution issues in Iran, especially during peak travel times.

👥 Key Players

Red Crescent Society of Iran MENTIONED
Humanitarian organization
"They provide emergency medical services and disaster relief in Iran, playing a crucial role in public health and safety."
Davood Rajabi MENTIONED
Deputy of Rescue and Relief of the Red Crescent Society of Alborz Province
"As a spokesperson for the Red Crescent, he is responsible for public safety communications and guidance during emergencies."

📰 What Happened

Heavy traffic in the Kandovan Tunnel on the Karaj-Chalus road led to the poisoning of 23 individuals due to pollution. The victims received medical treatment and are recovering.

  • The Kandovan Tunnel is over 1800 meters long and one of the oldest tunnels in Iran.
  • The incident occurred during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, a peak travel time for Iranians.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: This incident underscores the challenges of traffic management and public health in Iran, particularly during busy travel periods.
🌍 Regional: It reflects broader issues of infrastructure and environmental health that may affect regional travel and safety.
🌐 International: While primarily a domestic issue, it raises concerns about Iran's infrastructure and public health management.

📚 Background

Iran faces significant traffic congestion and pollution challenges, particularly during holiday seasons when many citizens travel.

Public health in Iran Traffic management in urban areas
📡 Source: STATE MEDIA
📊 Confidence: 70%
As a state-run agency, IRNA may emphasize government responses and downplay systemic issues.

Iranian rescue officials report that heavy traffic on the Karaj-Chalus road and the halt of vehicles in the Kandovan Tunnel have resulted in the poisoning of 23 individuals. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) published statements from the Deputy of Rescue and Relief of the Red Crescent Society of Alborz Province on Wednesday, July 6, assuring that the victims of this incident received oxygen therapy and are now in good general condition. Davood Rajabi, the Deputy of the Red Crescent, then advised Iranian citizens not to choose the Karaj-Chalus road for travel during these holiday days and to use alternative routes towards the north of the country. Wednesday was declared Eid al-Fitr in Iran. The Eid al-Fitr holiday lasts for two days in Iran, which this year, including Friday, will result in three continuous days off, tempting many citizens to travel. Reports indicate a massive influx of vehicles heading from the Karaj-Chalus route to northern Iran on Wednesday. The Mehr news agency reported that vehicle traffic in the Kandovan Tunnel was halted for more than an hour and a half on Wednesday evening, causing respiratory problems for the passengers. The Kandovan Tunnel is one of the longest and oldest tunnels on the Karaj-Chalus route, built during the reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi, with a length of over 1800 meters.

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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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