KATHMANDU, APRIL 3

The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has urged the public to take strict precautions as air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley reaches alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) entering the "hazardous" category.

In a press release issued today, the ministry warned that Nepal has been ranked among the most polluted countries globally in recent days.

The AQI in Kathmandu was recorded at 348 on Thursday, far exceeding safe limits.

The AQI categorizes air quality as follows:

  • 0-50: Good
  • 51-100: Moderate
  • 101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
  • 151-200: Unhealthy
  • 201-300: Very unhealthy
  • Above 301: Hazardous
Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, MoHP spokesperson, advised children, elderly citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory illnesses to take extra precautions, as they are at higher risk.

The Ministry has urged the public to:

  • Avoid going outdoors unless necessary
  • Wear masks while traveling
  • Steer clear of highly polluted areas
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has called for collective efforts to control air pollution and remain vigilant about health risks. The Authority attributed the worsening air quality to forest fires, road construction, and industrial activities.

Industries, factories, and construction-related businesses have been instructed to take necessary measures to minimize pollution. The government has also directed concerned authorities to monitor air quality and implement immediate interventions to improve conditions.