Kathmandu: The Ministry of Health and Population Nepal has urged the public to take precautions as air pollution levels have significantly increased in the Kathmandu Valley.

Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki advised residents to minimize exposure to polluted air, warning that it can lead to health problems affecting the heart, blood vessels, lungs, eyes, kidneys, and may also increase risks of asthma and cancer.

Vulnerable Groups Advised to Stay Indoors
The ministry has particularly urged people with chronic illnesses and pregnant women to avoid going outside as much as possible. It also emphasized that children, senior citizens, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic cough are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.

Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities especially in the morning and evening, and to wear masks if they need to go outside.

Causes of Rising Pollution
According to the ministry, pollution levels have increased due to several factors including emissions from old vehicles, forest fires, industrial activities, and dust generated from construction materials.

Officials have warned that the current pollution level in the Kathmandu Valley is expected to persist for about another week. The sky has remained hazy and sunlight has been limited due to dense pollution.

AQI Reaches Hazardous Level
Data from the Department of Environment Nepal shows that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kathmandu reached around 200 on Monday, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category. As a result, Kathmandu was listed as the second most polluted city in the world, after Dhaka.

Experts Call for Long-Term Measures
Environmental expert Bhushan Tuladhar stressed the need for timely measures to control pollution. He suggested proper household waste management, effective fire control, regular vehicle emission testing, and strict enforcement of environmental standards.

Doctors have also reported an increase in patients visiting hospitals with symptoms such as itchy eyes and nasal irritation. Health experts advise people to stay indoors as much as possible and use masks and protective glasses when going outside.