Kathmandu, April 7
Nepal’s air quality has deteriorated to hazardous levels, with Kathmandu ranking as the world’s second most polluted city, according to real-time data from Swiss monitoring agency IQAir.
As of 6 AM today, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 211. New Delhi ranked first with an AQI of 277, followed by Lahore at 208. Earlier this week, Kathmandu had topped the global pollution rankings.
Nepal’s official air quality index classifies an AQI of 201–300 as “very unhealthy,” while levels above 300 are considered “hazardous.” Kathmandu’s AQI is currently marked in purple, indicating severe health risks.
Within the city, the Shankhapark area recorded the highest pollution with an AQI of 284, followed by Ratnapark, Bhaktapur, Bhaisepati, Khumaltar, Deukhuri (Dang), Ilam, Dhangadhi, and Rara, where air quality remains poor and is flagged red.
The Department of Environment attributes the spike in pollution to forest fires occurring across the country in recent days. Additional factors include emissions from factories and vehicles, open burning of waste and agricultural residues, household smoke, and dust from construction activities.
Air pollution tends to rise sharply during March, April, and May due to dry weather and an increased frequency of wildfires. Doctors have warned that poor air quality poses serious health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory, cardiac conditions, or pregnancy. They advise people to avoid outdoor activities and wear masks if venturing outside.
