Kathmandu: On the occasion of World Environment Day, the Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has launched the Kathmandu Metropolitan Air Quality Monitoring Dashboard, enabling citizens to access real-time information about air pollution in different parts of the city.

According to Sita Rai, Head of the KMC Environment Management Department, the dashboard displays data from air quality monitoring devices installed at 18 different locations across the metropolis. Users can view levels of PM2.5 particles and the Air Quality Index (AQI) for each area, which will help them stay informed about local air conditions.

Mayor Balendra Shah (Balen) described the initiative as a key step toward building a healthier urban environment. The dashboard uses six color-coded indicators to signify air quality levels and associated health risks. Green represents good air, yellow is moderate, and orange signals caution for sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiac conditions. Red denotes an unhealthy environment for everyone, while purple and dark brown represent very unhealthy to hazardous conditions requiring serious health precautions.

KMC Health Department Chief Deepak Kumar KC noted that the data will help design effective policies, budgets, and public health programs. Public awareness boards with AQI color codes and health warning messages will also be placed at various locations, including space for educational videos on air pollution.

Additionally, the dashboard includes updates on the progress of vehicle pollution control efforts. Monitoring devices have already been installed in key areas like Kshetrapati Hospital, Lainchaur, Kalanki, Balaju Baisadhara Garden, Thapathali, and the New Bus Park.