Air Pollution in Kathmandu Reaches ‘Hazardous’ Level on Tuesday Morning

Air pollution in Kathmandu Valley rose sharply on Tuesday morning, reaching a “hazardous” level. According to IQAir, a global organization that monitors air quality in major cities, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kathmandu was measured at 206 at around 9:30 a.m.

With this reading, Kathmandu ranked as the third most polluted city in the world.

Data from IQAir shows that New Delhi in India ranked first with an AQI of 250, while Dhaka in Bangladesh ranked second with an AQI of 209, followed by Kathmandu in third place. According to standards set by the Government of Nepal, an AQI between 201 and 300 is considered “very unhealthy.”

Experts say the major causes of rising air pollution in Kathmandu include vehicle emissions, dust from construction activities, poor road management, and smoke from industries and brick kilns. In addition, lack of rainfall, dry weather, and low wind flow trap pollutants within the valley for longer periods.

Doctors warn that air pollution can have serious impacts on human health. Highly polluted air increases the risk of heart and cardiovascular diseases, lung problems, asthma, cancer, eye irritation, and kidney-related issues. Children, elderly people, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses are particularly vulnerable.

Following the rise in pollution levels, the Ministry of Health and Population (Nepal) has urged the public to remain cautious. The ministry issued a notice advising people to take necessary precautions and recommended that high-risk groups stay indoors as much as possible.

If going outside is unavoidable, the ministry has recommended using high-quality masks, especially N95 masks. People are also advised to avoid morning walks or outdoor exercise, keep doors and windows closed when possible, and stay away from dusty and smoky environments.

Experts say that long-term solutions to control air pollution in Kathmandu Valley include better vehicle management, improvements in public transportation, expansion of green spaces, and effective control of construction dust.