Kathmandu: A new report released in the capital warns that air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley and Terai region is severely affecting public health, cutting the average life expectancy of Nepalis by over three years, and contributing to 26,000 premature deaths annually.

The World Bank’s country office, in collaboration with the Nepali government, South Korea, and Switzerland, unveiled the report titled ‘Clean Air in Nepal: Benefits, Pollution Sources and Solutions’ on Tuesday. The report highlights that clean air is a natural human right and must be protected.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri stressed the government’s commitment to reducing air pollution, citing the promotion of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and electric appliances in households and industries as key strategies.

The World Bank’s Country Director for Nepal and Sri Lanka, David Sislen, assured continued support for improving air quality in Nepal, stating that clean air is essential not only for public health, but also for economic prosperity.

The report identifies several major sources of pollution:

Diesel and petrol-powered vehicles

Brick kilns

Burning plastic and crop residue

Road dust and wildfires

Besides damaging human health, air pollution negatively impacts labor productivity, tourism, and civil aviation.

Environmental experts at the event emphasized the urgency of coordinated action involving the government, citizens, and stakeholders to secure the right to breathe clean air for all Nepalis.