Kathmandu: The Ministry of Health and Population has urged everyone to adopt high precautions due to the increase in air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley. Issuing a press release, the Ministry requested the public to take necessary precautions as Nepal has been ranked among the most polluted countries in the world for the past few days according to the Air Quality Index (AQI).
According to National News Agency Nepal, the AQI level in Kathmandu has now reached 348, placing it in the ‘hazardous’ category. Ministry Spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki advised children, elderly persons, pregnant women, and people with respiratory illnesses to take special precautions, as they are more vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution.
The Ministry also urged the general public to avoid stepping out of their homes except for essential work, to wear masks while traveling, and to avoid visiting highly polluted areas. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority has called on everyone to take initiatives from their areas to control air pollution and remain vigilant about health risks.
The increase in air pollution is attributed to factors such as forest fires, road construction, and industrial activities, added the Authority. Industries, factories, and construction-related entities have been urged to take necessary precautions to reduce air pollution. The Authority, through the government, has directed the concerned bodies to measure air pollution and adopt immediate measures to improve air quality.