KATHMANDU, April 4: Strong winds reduced air pollution in the capital on Friday, lowering Kathmandu Valley's ranking from the world's most polluted city to the seventh position.
Air Quality Index (AQI) data showed that Kathmandu had the highest pollution levels worldwide by Thursday noon, reaching 348 AQI. However, as of this report, pollution levels had dropped to 147 AQI.
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According to Nepal's government-approved air quality index, an AQI of 0-50 is good, 51-100 moderate, 101-150 unhealthy for sensitive groups, 151-200 unhealthy, 201-300 very unhealthy, and above 301 hazardous.
Gyanraj Subedi, Director General of the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Forests and Environment, confirmed that increased wind speed helped reduce pollution levels.
“Kathmandu's bowl-like shape traps pollution, but rain settles surface pollutants, and wind disperses accumulated pollution from the valley,” he explained. “To combat pollution, the department has prioritized raising public awareness and issuing directives with recommendations to polluters. Additionally, coordination between the Department of Environment and other relevant agencies remains essential.”