Kathmandu: The Kathmandu Valley is grappling with severe air pollution, causing significant alarm over its impact on human health. Residents are anxiously anticipating a reprieve from the persistent smog that has blanketed the region for several days.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the situation has prompted government agencies and medical practitioners to issue warnings and advisories. Despite these efforts, no substantial measures have been implemented to mitigate the smog, leaving the residents with little choice but to limit outdoor activities to essential errands only.
Recent data from the Air Quality Index (AQI) indicated that Kathmandu had become the most polluted city as of Thursday afternoon, recording an AQI of 348. An AQI above 301 is classified as extremely unhealthy, raising concerns among environmentalists and medical professionals. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Management, Prakash Man Singh, convened a meeting to discuss potential strategies to combat the pollution.
The Ministry of Health and Population has issued notices urging the public to exercise extreme caution due to the hazardous air quality. Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki warned of the heightened risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, eye problems, skin allergies, and other health issues, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions.
Climatologist and disaster management expert Dr. Dharma Raj Uprety explained that the weak westerly winds have failed to bring rain or disperse the polluted air trapped in the valley. The rising temperatures, increase in forest fires, and burning of agricultural residues have contributed to the deteriorating air quality. Dr. Uprety emphasized that the absence of rainfall has exacerbated the pollution levels.
Meteorologist Pratibha Manandhar noted that although a slight improvement in air quality is expected in the coming days, the lack of strong winds to clear the air remains a concern. Director General of the Environment Department, Gyanraj Subedi, highlighted the ongoing issue of reduced winter rainfall and the lack of eco-friendly infrastructure, which have compounded the pollution problem.
The Environment Department has warned that high levels of air pollution could persist until mid-June, urging the public to remain vigilant. Recent data revealed 253 wildfires across the country, affecting 45 districts, further contributing to the crisis.
Health professionals have expressed deep concerns over the health implications of the pollution. Cardiologist Dr. Ranjit Sharma advised individuals with heart conditions to avoid outdoor activities, especially in the morning when pollution levels are highest. Ophthalmologist Dr. Muna Kunwar and dermatologists have similarly advised against exposure to the polluted air to prevent eye and skin problems.
Gynecologist Dr. Jitentra Pariyar emphasized the need for government intervention to protect pregnant women, who are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of the pollution. Environmental expert Bhusan Tuladhar called for the declaration of a health emergency and increased public awareness, given that the AQI surpassed 300.
Rights defenders have argued that the current situation infringes on the constitutional right to a clean environment, as guaranteed by Nepal’s constitution. Senior advocate and environmental expert Prakash Mani Sharma stated that residents are being deprived of this fundamental right.
Despite the Air Quality Management Work Plan for the Kathmandu Valley, which considers an AQI over 300 a disaster, the Environment Department has acknowledged the difficulty in holding polluters accountable and enforcing pollution reduction measures.