Kathmandu, Nepal - Air quality in Nepal’s capital deteriorated to unhealthy levels on Sunday, placing Kathmandu among the world’s most polluted cities and triggering renewed concern over public health and environmental governance.
According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), air pollution in the Kathmandu Valley reached 175 AQI by midday, a level classified as unhealthy for the general population. On the same day, Kathmandu was ranked seventh among the most polluted cities globally. Cairo, Egypt, topped the list with an AQI reading of 273.
Officials from Nepal’s Department of Environment attributed the worsening air quality to a combination of dry weather conditions, lack of wind circulation, intensified industrial activity, and ongoing construction and development works across the valley.
“Smoke and dust released from industrial activities, cross-border pollution, and air pollutants drifting in from neighbouring India have also contributed to the current situation,” said Gyanraj Subedi, Director General of the Department of Environment. He warned that pollution levels could rise further if rainfall does not occur in the coming days.
Environmental authorities have advised concerned agencies to prioritise environment-friendly development practices to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Experts highlight that the current AQI level poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. Disaster management specialist Dr. Dharmaraj Upreti explained that AQI readings between 101 and 150 are considered unhealthy, affecting individuals with respiratory and heart conditions. Levels between 151 and 200 are unhealthy for everyone, while readings above 300 are categorised as extremely hazardous.
Under the Kathmandu Valley Air Quality Management Action Plan, 2076, the Government of Nepal officially recognises AQI levels exceeding 300 as a disaster situation. The plan outlines emergency measures such as halting waste burning, expanding mechanised road cleaning using vacuum and broom machines, and issuing public advisories urging children, senior citizens, and patients to take special precautions.
Nepal’s National Environment Policy, 2076 further commits the government to establishing national standards to control pollution related to air, water, soil, noise, electromagnetic waves, radioactive radiation, and hazardous chemicals. The policy also envisions the expansion of air, water, and noise quality monitoring stations in major cities, industrial zones, and pollution-prone areas, alongside comprehensive environmental mapping.
As Kathmandu continues to grapple with recurring air pollution episodes, environmental experts stress that long-term solutions-beyond emergency responses-are essential to protect public health and ensure sustainable urban development.
