Kathmandu: The air quality in the Kathmandu Valley has continued to worsen, with recent measurements placing it as the second most polluted area globally. The valley’s air quality index (AQI) reached a concerning level of 174 on Wednesday, highlighting significant air pollution issues amid deteriorating weather conditions experienced across the region.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Gyan Raj Subedi, Director General at the Department of Environment, indicated that the lack of rainfall and strong winds has led to the accumulation of polluted air within the valley’s bowl-like geography. Subedi advised residents to minimize outdoor activities, except for essential needs, and to wear masks when venturing outside. He noted the prevalent gloomy weather and the absence of rain or sunshine, emphasizing that the pollution will only subside with an improvement in weather conditions.
Meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari from the Meteorological Forecasting Division shared a more optimistic outlook, suggesting that the weather will gradually improve, leading to a reduction in haze over time. Despite these assurances, the current AQI level remains hazardous to health, indicating a pressing need for public awareness and preparedness to combat air pollution.
Environmental campaigner Bhushan Tuladhar stressed the importance of massive public awareness campaigns to address air pollution issues. He called for immediate action to mitigate the health risks posed by the polluted air, noting the critical need for community engagement in efforts to improve air quality.
The AQI scale categorizes readings from 150 to 200 as hazardous to everyone’s health, while readings between 201 and 300 are considered very unhealthy, and above 300 as very harmful. In contrast, an AQI reading from 0 to 50 is regarded as good air quality, underscoring the current severity of the situation in Kathmandu Valley.