Kathmandu’s Air Quality Turns ‘Very Unhealthy’; Health Ministry Urges Public to Take Precautions

The Ministry of Health and Population Nepal (MoHP) has urged the public to take precautionary measures as air pollution levels continue to rise in the Kathmandu Valley and other major cities across the country.

The Ministry issued the appeal after air pollution in Kathmandu reached a very unhealthy level. According to the Switzerland-based air quality monitoring platform IQAir, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kathmandu was recorded at 206 this morning while preparing this report. An AQI level above 150 is considered unhealthy, while readings above 200 fall under the “very unhealthy” category.

Under the air quality standards approved by the Government of Nepal, an AQI of 0–50 is considered good, 51–100 moderate, 101–150 unhealthy for sensitive groups, 151–200 unhealthy, 201–300 very unhealthy, and readings above 301 are categorized as hazardous.

At present, Kathmandu ranks as the third most polluted city in the world. Delhi, India, holds the first position, followed by Dhaka, Bangladesh, both of which are also experiencing very unhealthy levels of air pollution.

Ministry spokesperson Dr. Prakash Budhathoki warned that rising air pollution could lead to various health complications affecting the heart, blood vessels, lungs, eyes, kidneys, and other organs. He added that air pollution may worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic cough, and could increase the risk of cancer.

He noted that individuals with chronic illnesses and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable and advised them to avoid going outdoors unless necessary. Similarly, children, senior citizens, and people suffering from respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic coughs have been urged to exercise special precautions.

According to the Ministry, increasing emissions from old vehicles, forest fires, industrial activities, and dust and smoke from construction materials are among the key contributors to the rising pollution levels.

Meanwhile, the Department of Environment Nepal stated that pollution levels have been rising in several parts of the country in recent days due to unfavorable weather conditions. The department also noted that the concentration of fine particulate matter has significantly increased in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara and warned that the pollution is likely to persist in the Kathmandu Valley for about another week.

In view of the worsening air quality, the Ministry has advised people to avoid outdoor activities during the morning and evening hours and to wear protective masks if they must go outside.