Spread the love

By Our Reporter

Nepal has been consistently ranked among the top 10 most polluted countries, with Kathmandu and other cities affected the most.

The lack of rainfall, forest fires, practice of waste burning and burning of agricultural residues are blamed for high pollution levels.

 The Kathmandu Valley is affected worst because its bowl-shaped topography.

 On Tuesday afternoon, the Air Quality Index (AQI) readings across various locations in Nepal were extremely high. Bhaisepati recorded an alarming 516, Bhaktapur measured 154, the U.S. Embassy recorded 172, Shankapark 164, Hetauda 152 and Bharatpur 154.

According to environmentalists, at the beginning of the winter season, there was minimal external pollution. However, Nepal is now experiencing pollution from bordering countries as well.

This year, Nepal has received only 5.7 mm of winter rainfall, just 9.5 per cent of the seasonal average of 60 mm.

According to environmentalists, at the beginning of the winter season, there was minimal external pollution. However, Nepal is now experiencing pollution from bordering countries as well.

Fire incidents are on the rise as the winter drought worsens. Smoke from forest fires is a major contributor to winter pollution and the valley traps much of this smoke due to its geographical structure.

The Department of Environment also issued a public notice urging people not to burn waste, to maintain vehicles regularly, to use clean energy in industries and kitchens and to help control smoke and dust on the roads. But people seem violating the instruction.