KATHMANDU, MARCH 10
The Air Quality Index (AQI) ranked the air pollution level of the Kathmandu Valley as the second worst in the world on Wednesday. Air quality has been deteriorating in the Valley and many other parts of the country for the past few days.
Director General of the Department of Environment, Gyan Raj Subedi, stated that the lack of rainfall and weak wind circulation has led to the accumulation of polluted air in the bowl-shaped Kathmandu Valley. He urged people to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary and to wear masks when going outside.
"For several days, most areas, including the Kathmandu Valley, have been experiencing gloomy weather conditions. There is neither rainfall nor clear sunshine in sight. With limited wind circulation, polluted air has become trapped in the Valley," he said, adding, "Once the weather improves, the level of air pollution will gradually decline."
However, meteorologist Sanjiv Adhikari from the Meteorological Forecasting Division said that the weather is expected to improve gradually as the haze slowly dissipates.
The AQI measured the Valley's air quality at 174, ranking it as the second most polluted city in the world as of 4:00 pm today.
Environmental campaigner Bhushan Tuladhar stressed that preparedness and preventive measures are essential to combat air pollution, adding that collective efforts and large-scale public awareness are necessary to address the issue effectively.
According to AQI standards, readings between 150 and 200 are considered 'unhealthy,' posing health risks to everyone.
Levels between 201 and 300 are categorized as 'very unhealthy,' while readings above 300 are deemed 'hazardous.' An AQI between 0 and 50 indicates good air quality.
(With inputs from Rastriya Samchar Samiti)
