Kathmandu, April 18.  The Meteorological Forecasting Division (MFD) has reported a significant increase in air pollution levels across the country, including the Kathmandu Valley.

According to Shankar Prasad Paudel, Spokesperson for the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, lack of rainfall and wildfires in most parts of the country are the primary reasons for this surge in pollution.

Paudel stated that the lack of wind and rainfall has led to the accumulation of atmospheric pollution in the valley. Additionally, the polluted air from Bara, Parsa, and Chitwan is flowing through the Bagmati corridor, exacerbating the situation. The Department has cautioned that prolonged exposure to air pollution increases the risk of diseases such as hypertension, heart problems, and cancer.

To mitigate the risks, the Department has issued an advisory urging people to take precautions, including wearing facemasks and sunglasses. Meteorologist and disaster expert Dr. Dharma Upreti has suggested that it may take a few days for the air to clear up.

According to recent reports, the Kathmandu Valley has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading above 200. It’s important to note that air quality with an AQI between 51 and 100 is considered normal, while air quality with an AQI above 300 is considered dangerous.