Air Pollution Rises to High Levels in Kathmandu Valley, Health Risks Increase

Air pollution levels in the Kathmandu Valley have recently risen to a hazardous level, causing the sky to appear hazy and preventing sunlight from shining clearly. Since early morning, the weather in Kathmandu has remained foggy and visibility has significantly decreased, affecting transportation and causing minor disruptions to flight operations. The increasing concentration of dust particles and smoke in the air has led many residents to experience eye irritation and breathing difficulties. According to the Department of Environment, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the valley has reached a dangerous level. Meteorologists say that the sharp rise in pollution is mainly due to the absence of winter rainfall for a long time and smoke from wildfires in various parts of the country being carried into the valley by the wind. Health experts have advised children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses to avoid going outdoors and to wear high-quality masks if they must leave their homes. As there is little possibility of heavy rainfall or strong winds in the coming days, the polluted conditions are expected to persist for several more days.