ЁЯПЮ️ Nepal Suffocates in Unprecedented Haze: Pollution Crisis Deepens
Date: April 9, 2025
Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Byline: [Educate-Sphere]
ЁЯМл️ Record-Breaking Air Pollution Engulfs Nepal
Nepal is grappling with one of the worst air pollution episodes in its history, as a thick blanket of haze continues to smother major cities and valleys. From the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the quiet hills of Pokhara, visibility has dropped dramatically, and the air quality has plummeted to hazardous levels, sparking health warnings and widespread concern.
According to the Department of Environment, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached over 400 in several locations, far beyond the safe limit of 50, and categorized as “severe.” The cities of Bhaktapur, Lalitpur, and even parts of Chitwan and Butwal have reported similar conditions.
“This level of pollution is extremely dangerous, especially for children, the elderly, and people with preexisting respiratory conditions,” said Dr. Ramesh Dhungana, a pulmonologist at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.
ЁЯТи What’s Causing the Haze?
Experts attribute the smog to a toxic combination of factors:
- Forest fires raging across the southern Terai and parts of western Nepal
- Vehicular emissions and urban construction dust
- Dry weather patterns and a lack of wind to disperse pollutants
- Cross-border pollution carried by winds from northern India
The Nepal Fire Alert System reported over 2,500 active fires across the country, many of them in national parks and dry grasslands. These fires are contributing heavily to the smoke and particulate matter in the atmosphere.
ЁЯЪи Health Emergency Declared
Hospitals in Kathmandu have seen a sharp rise in patients complaining of breathing difficulties, burning eyes, fatigue, and asthma attacks. Pharmacies are running low on masks and inhalers.
The Ministry of Health has issued a nationwide public health alert, urging people to stay indoors, avoid strenuous activity, and wear N95-grade masks when venturing outside. Schools in heavily affected areas have been closed temporarily, and outdoor sports events have been canceled.
ЁЯМз️ Hope in the Forecast: Rain Expected
Meteorologists from the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology are forecasting light to moderate rainfall over the next 48 hours, particularly in the hilly and central regions. While not guaranteed, any rainfall could significantly help settle airborne particles and improve visibility.
“We’re hopeful the approaching weather system from the west will bring relief. Even a few millimeters of rain can make a noticeable difference,” said senior meteorologist Mina Shrestha.
However, experts caution that if rain does not arrive soon or is too light, the pollution could persist for days, prolonging the crisis.
ЁЯПЫ️ Government and Public Response
The Nepali government has been criticized for its slow response and lack of a long-term strategy to combat air pollution. Environmental activists are calling for:
- Stricter regulations on construction and vehicle emissions
- Better forest fire monitoring and response systems
- Promotion of electric vehicles and sustainable urban planning
Meanwhile, concerned citizens have taken to social media, sharing real-time AQI readings and urging others to protect themselves.
ЁЯУ╖ Scenes from the Ground
- Iconic landmarks like Swayambhunath Stupa and Patan Durbar Square are barely visible through the haze
- Traffic congestion worsens as visibility drops
- People wear double masks or use scarves to shield themselves from the foul air
- The Himalayas, typically visible from the valley during spring, are nowhere to be seen
ЁЯФН Looking Ahead
With climate change and rapid urbanization putting additional stress on Nepal’s environment, experts warn that such pollution events may become more frequent and severe if preventive measures are not urgently implemented.
“This isn’t just a one-time crisis. It’s a wake-up call,” said environmental scientist Asha Thapa.
As Nepal awaits the rain, the nation is left hoping for both immediate relief and long-term change.
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