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Uchquduq Shahri, nestled within Uzbekistan’s Navoiy Province, occupies a distinctly arid landscape at coordinates 42.1567°N, 63.5556°E. The city’s elevation, approximately 200 meters above sea level, places it within the Kyzylkum Desert, a vast expanse of shifting sands and sparse vegetation. This desert environment profoundly influences the local air quality. The surrounding terrain is largely flat, with gentle undulations and occasional low hills, offering limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Uchquduq Shahri’s development is intrinsically linked to its mineral wealth, particularly uranium mining and processing, forming a significant industrial belt immediately surrounding the urban area. This concentration of industrial activity is a primary driver of local pollution. The city’s population of around 26,800 is relatively small, creating a sharp urban-rural gradient. There are no significant bodies of water nearby; the nearest substantial water source is the Amu Darya river, located some distance to the south. Dust storms, common in the Kyzylkum, contribute significantly to particulate matter in the air, exacerbated by the lack of substantial vegetation to bind the soil. The prevailing winds, generally from the northwest, can carry dust and pollutants across the city, impacting air quality.

Uchquduq Shahri experiences a continental climate with extreme temperature variations, directly impacting air quality throughout the year. Spring (March-May) sees increasing dust levels as the desert thaws and winds pick up, creating periods of reduced visibility and elevated particulate matter. Summers (June-August) are intensely hot and dry, with stable atmospheric conditions leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground, particularly those from industrial sources. This is typically the worst period for air quality. Autumn (September-November) brings a temporary improvement as temperatures moderate and some rainfall occurs, washing away accumulated dust and pollutants. However, the onset of heating systems in late autumn can introduce localised smoke pollution. Winters (December-February) are cold, with occasional snowfall, but generally experience better air quality due to reduced industrial activity and calmer winds. However, temperature inversions can still occur, trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during summer months and periods of high dust. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the northwest are likely to bring poorer air quality. Avoiding strenuous activity near industrial zones is also advisable.