Kathmandu: Air pollution levels in Kathmandu Valley have significantly worsened due to a lack of adequate rainfall. The skies remain cloudy, but meteorologists say that local winds and the western low-pressure system have failed to bring meaningful precipitation.

According to meteorologist Binu Maharjan, although light rain and snowfall have occurred in some parts of the country, they have not been sufficient to clear the Valley's polluted air. She added that similar weather conditions are expected to persist for the next three days.

Kathmandu Ranks Fifth Among World’s Most Polluted Cities
As of the latest data, Kathmandu's Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 163, making it the fifth most polluted city in the world. The ranking is led by Hanoi, Vietnam, with an AQI of 210, followed by Beijing, China (184), Dhaka, Bangladesh (175), and New Delhi, India (170). The rising pollution levels in Kathmandu are raising serious health concerns, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people suffering from respiratory and heart diseases.

Major Sources of Pollution Identified
The Department of Environment has identified the primary sources of air pollution in Kathmandu. These include emissions from industries and factories, smoke from motorcycles and other vehicles, dust from ongoing construction work, and the open burning of waste. Authorities warn that without significant rainfall or intervention, the pollution levels are likely to remain high until Jestha (May-June).

Health Risks and AQI Guidelines
Disaster Management Expert Dr. Dharmaraj Upreti explained the health risks associated with different AQI levels. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered safe, while levels between 51 and 100 call for caution. AQI levels between 101 and 150 are unhealthy for sensitive groups, and readings from 151 to 200 are unhealthy for the general population. AQI levels above 200 are considered very unhealthy, and anything above 300 is hazardous. According to the Air Quality Management Action Plan 2076 BS for Kathmandu Valley, an AQI above 300 is treated as a disaster situation.

Precautionary Measures Urged
Health experts and government agencies are advising the public to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the worsening air quality. People are urged to limit outdoor activities, wear masks designed to filter out fine particles, use air purifiers indoors, and stay hydrated. Authorities emphasize the need for special care for those with respiratory conditions, heart problems, and other health vulnerabilities.

With pollution levels showing no immediate signs of improvement, the government is urging cooperation from the public and industrial sectors to minimize activities that worsen air quality.