KATHMANDU, MARCH 9
The Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP) has urged the public to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the increasing air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley as well as other major cities across the country.
The Ministry issued the appeal in light of the rising air pollution levels in the Kathmandu Valley and several other places.
The Ministry's spokesperson, Prakash Budhathoki, warned that air pollution could lead to various health problems affecting the heart, blood vessels, lungs, eyes, kidneys and other organs. He also noted that it could aggravate conditions such as Asthma and increase the risk of Cancer. He therefore called on everyone to remain cautious and adopt preventive measures.
Spokesperson Budhathoki said that air pollution could severely affect people with chronic illnesses and pregnant women. He therefore urged these vulnerable groups to avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary.
Noting that children, senior citizens and people suffering from respiratory complications such as asthma and chronic cough are particularly vulnerable to air pollution, he advised them to take special precautions.
Budhathoki further stated that the rise in air pollution is mainly attributed to emissions from old vehicles, forest fires, industrial activities, and smoke and dust generated by construction materials.
Meanwhile, the Department of Environment said that pollution levels have been rising in different parts of the country in recent days due to unfavorable weather conditions.
The Department also noted that the concentration of fine particles has increased significantly in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, adding that air pollution is likely to persist in the Kathmandu Valley for about another week.
The Ministry has advised people to avoid going outdoors during the morning and evening hours and to compulsorily wear masks if they must go outside.
(With inputs from Rastriya Samachar Samiti)
