नवीनतम
Nepal on high alert as air quality continues to deteriorate
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population has urged people to take precautions as air pollution levels continue to remain unhealthy throughout the week.
The health ministry issued a statement stating that Nepal has recently been listed among the most polluted countries according to the Air Quality Index (AQI). With Kathmandu's AQI level reaching 348, categorized as 'hazardous,' the MoHP advised children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses to be especially cautious.
The MoHP has recommended staying indoors unless necessary, wearing masks during travel, and avoiding highly polluted areas.
Ministry Spokesperson Prakash Budhathoki urged "vulnerable groups--children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory conditions--to exercise heightened caution. The Ministry advises the public to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, wear masks when venturing outside, and avoid heavily polluted areas."
The AQI classifies air quality as follows: 0-50 is "good," 51-100 is "moderate," 101-150 is "unhealthy for sensitive groups," 151-200 is "unhealthy," 201-300 is "very unhealthy," and above 301 is "hazardous." Kathmandu's current AQI stands at 348, placing it firmly in the "hazardous" category.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority attributed the spike in pollution to forest fires, road construction, and industrial activities. It has called on citizens, industries, and construction firms to take proactive steps to curb emissions and safeguard public health. The Authority has also directed relevant agencies to monitor air quality closely and implement urgent measures to mitigate the crisis.
In recent weeks, air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley has worsened significantly, becoming both visible and physically noticeable.
