Air Quality in Kathmandu deteriorates to ‘very unhealthy’ levels

KATHMANDU: Air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley has sharply worsened, with air quality plunging into the “very unhealthy” category despite earlier improvement following rainfall.

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), pollution levels that hovered around 92 on Tuesday afternoon surged dramatically to 247 by 11:00 AM today.

This level falls under the “very unhealthy” category, posing serious health risks to the general public.

As per AQI standards, a reading of 0–50 is considered “good,” 51–100 “moderate,” 101–150 “unhealthy,” 151–200 “unhealthy for all,” 201–300 “very unhealthy,” and above 300 “hazardous.”

Director General of the Department of Environment, Gyan Raj Subedi, attributed the spike in pollution to prolonged dry conditions, lack of rainfall, open burning of agricultural residues, and increasing incidents of forest fires.

“The absence of rain and rising dryness have allowed dust and smoke particles to accumulate in the atmosphere,” he said. “Rain typically helps settle these particles, improving air quality, but that has not happened recently.”

Authorities have urged concerned agencies to implement sustainable and environmentally friendly development measures more effectively.

Meanwhile, meteorologist Binu Maharjan from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology said there is little chance of significant rainfall over the next three days, with temperatures expected to rise further.

“Without rainfall, the atmosphere cannot cleanse itself, increasing the likelihood of further pollution,” she noted.

Health experts warn that children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks, and take precautions against dust and smoke exposure.