Air quality continues to worsen in Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu, March 10: The air quality index (AQI) measured the Kathmandu Valley pollution as the second worst in the world on Tuesday. The weather has been deteriorating in the valley and many parts of the country for some days.     

Director General at the Department of Environment, Gyan Raj Subedi, has argued that lack of rainfall and strong wind caused the deposit of polluted air in the bowl-shaped valley. He urged all not to go out of residence except essential work and use mask while going out of residence.     

"For some days, most of the places including the Kathmandu Valley witnessed gloomy weather. Even the rains are not in sight, nor the sunny weather. With strong wind in short supply, the polluted air is choking the valley," he said, adding, "Once the weather improves, the air pollution subsides."     

Meteorologist at Meteorological Forecasting Division, Sanjiv Adhikari, however, informed that the weather would improve gradually with gradual disappearance of haze.     

The AQI measured Kathmandu Valley's air quality at 174, placing it as the second worst polluted city in the world till 4:00pm today.  Environmental campaigner Bhushan Tuladhar said preparedness is imperative for air pollution. Massive public awareness against air pollution is needed together.     

The AQI notches from 150 to 200 are categorized 'hazardous to every ones' health', while the reading from 201 to 300 signals 'very unhealthy' and above it 'very harmful'. The measurement from 0 to 50 indicates the air quality as 'good'.(RSS)