Russian Pollution

I fully understand the problem Russia has with pollution (Aug. 21). Years ago I was on the Trans-Siberian Railway, when our tour guide told everyone to close the windows and suitcases. The sweeping vistas were replaced by closely planted poplar trees on either side of the tracks, blocking all views. Soon a black cloud permeated everything and everyone.

No one would answer our questions about this cloud, but I remember having to scrub my skin with a hairbrush later to get that stuff out.

KURT SIPOLSKI

Palm Desert