KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 9
The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has imposed a ban on the open burning of waste and plastic materials within its jurisdiction to control rising air pollution during the winter months.
According to the KMC Environment Department, the measure aims to mitigate the growing environmental and health risks associated with the seasonal increase in open-air burning.
Department Chief Sarita Rai said that the incineration of plastic and other waste materials severely harms public health and the environment. "Anyone found violating the rule will face a fine of Rs 10,000 per offense," she added.
Rai noted that the level of air pollution in the valley surges every winter, largely due to the open burning of plastic waste. The ban, she said, seeks to protect vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.
KMC has also initiated awareness and monitoring campaigns to ensure compliance under the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Environment and Natural Resources Conservation Act, 2077 BS, and the Fiscal Act, 2082 BS.
(With inputs from RSS)
