Kathmandu’s pollution levels decrease

KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Valley, which was recently ranked as the most polluted city in the world, has seen a significant improvement in air quality today.

The wind speed has increased, leading to a reduction in pollution levels, causing the city to drop from the top spot on the global air pollution index to seventh place.

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data, Kathmandu was recorded as the most polluted city on Thursday afternoon, with an AQI reading reaching 348.

However, as of today, the pollution level has significantly reduced, with the AQI dropping to 147.

The government-approved air quality standards categorize AQI levels as follows: 0-50 is considered “good,” 51-100 is “moderate,” 101-150 is “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” 151-200 is “unhealthy,” 201-300 is “very unhealthy,” and readings above 301 are considered “hazardous.”

Director General of the Department of Environment, Mr. Gyanraj Subedi, stated that the reduction in pollution was primarily due to increased wind speed, which has helped disperse the pollution that had accumulated in the valley.

“Kathmandu, being in a bowl-shaped geographical area, tends to trap pollution. However, when it rains, the pollutants settle down, and the wind helps disperse the pollutants from the valley,” he explained.

Mr. Subedi further emphasized the importance of public awareness programs in tackling pollution and stressed the need for greater coordination among relevant authorities.

“We are providing guidance and recommendations to those contributing to pollution, and we are prioritizing awareness campaigns to mitigate air quality issues.”

Preventions:

1. Monitor Air Quality

• Check Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly to stay informed about pollution levels. Apps like AirVisual or websites like AQICN can provide real-time updates.

• If the air quality is bad, try to limit outdoor activities.

2. Limit Outdoor Activities

• Avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous activities on days when the air quality is poor.

• Try to stay indoors, especially during times when pollution levels are at their peak (often during rush hours or during heavy traffic).

3. Create an Indoor Safe Zone

• Keep windows closed during high pollution times to prevent outdoor air from coming in.

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor pollution.

• Ventilate your home when the air quality improves (e.g., during early morning or late evening when pollution tends to be lower).

4. Wear a Mask

• Consider wearing an N95 mask or a similar high-filtration mask when you have to be outdoors. These masks can help filter out harmful particles from the air.

5. Use a Humidifier

• A humidifier can help reduce the drying effects of polluted air, especially in urban areas with high levels of particulate matter (PM).

6. Stay Hydrated

• Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from your body and keep your respiratory system functioning optimally.

7. Protect Vulnerable Groups

• Children, elderly people, and those with respiratory conditions (like asthma) should take extra precautions by staying indoors or reducing their time outside during high-pollution periods.

8. Maintain Healthy Respiratory Practices

• Breathe through your nose rather than your mouth to help filter out some of the pollutants.

• Consider using saline nasal sprays to clear out pollutants that may have entered your nasal passages.

9. Healthy Diet and Antioxidants

• Eating foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help your body combat oxidative stress caused by air pollution.

• Foods rich in vitamin C, E, and Omega-3 fatty acids can boost your immune system and improve your body’s ability to handle environmental stress.

10. Regular Health Checkups

• If you live in a city with significant air pollution, it’s a good idea to have regular checkups with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing respiratory issues.