Kathmandu:As winter approaches, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) is urging residents to refrain from burning plastic waste, a practice that could significantly exacerbate air pollution levels in the area.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Sarita Rai, the Head of KMC’s Environment Department, identified vehicle emissions, dust from roads and construction sites, industrial smoke, and the burning of plastic as primary contributors to the city’s air pollution problem. She stressed the importance of avoiding such activities to protect vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or chronic illnesses, who are at increased risk due to poor air quality.
Rai further appealed to the public to adhere to environmental norms, emphasizing that vehicles should observe pollution limits and undergo regular maintenance to reduce emissions. She also advised that construction materials should not be left on roads and sidewalks to prevent dust pollution.
Additionally, industries, factories, and hospitals are instructed to comply with the air quality and smoke standards established by the KMC Pollution Control Standard 2081 BS. The use of equipment designed to mitigate air pollution is also encouraged to improve the air quality in Kathmandu.