KATHMANDU, APRIL 4

The air pollution level in Kathmandu has decreased significantly due to an increase in wind speed, bringing some relief to residents after days of hazardous air quality.

Kathmandu Valley, which had topped the list of the world's most polluted cities in recent days, has now dropped to the seventh position in global rankings.

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), Kathmandu recorded a dangerously high AQI of 348 on Thursday afternoon, making it the most polluted city globally. However, as of Friday, the pollution level has dropped to 147 AQI, marking a significant improvement.

Understanding AQI Levels

As per the Nepal Government-approved air quality index:

0-50 AQI: Good

51-100 AQI: Moderate

101-150 AQI: Unhealthy for sensitive groups

151-200 AQI: Unhealthy

201-300 AQI: Very unhealthy

Above 301 AQI: Hazardous

Director General of the Department of Environment, Gyan Raj Subedi, attributed the decline in pollution levels to stronger winds.

Subedi also emphasized the need for public awareness and inter-agency coordination to tackle air pollution in the long term.

'The Department has given priority to increasing public awareness extensively to reduce pollution. Similarly, coordination between the Department of Environment and other concerned agencies is necessary,' he added.

(With inputs from RSS)