Kathmandu’s air pollution has crossed the very unhealthy level

Kathmandu, March 10

Air quality in Kathmandu has deteriorated to a very poor condition. As of this morning, the level of air pollution in the capital has crossed the “very unhealthy” threshold.

According to real-time measurements by Switzerland-based air quality monitoring organisation IQAir, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 206 as of the time this report was prepared. An AQI above 150 is considered unhealthy, while levels exceeding 200 are categorised as very unhealthy.

As per 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, and 201–300 very unhealthy. Readings above 301 indicate hazardous conditions.

Kathmandu currently ranks as the third most polluted city in the world. Delhi, India, ranks first, followed by Dhaka, Bangladesh. Air pollution levels in both cities have also crossed the very unhealthy mark.

Following the rise in pollution, Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population has urged the public to remain cautious. Ministry spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki urged everyone to take preventive measures against worsening air pollution.

He warned that air pollution can lead to problems affecting the heart, blood vessels, lungs, asthma, cancer, eyes, kidneys, and other organs, and urged people to stay alert.

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