KATHMANDU, Nov 3: Meteorologist Binod Pokhrel has warned that air pollution could worsen in Nepal as haze and smoke begin to affect the country.
He said pollution levels have risen in the Tarai, while air quality in Kathmandu is also deteriorating rapidly. With pollution likely to increase in the coming days, he stressed the need to reduce local sources of emissions.
According to Pokhrel, burning waste and vehicles emitting excessive smoke could further worsen air quality. He urged people and authorities to take measures to control pollution at the local level.
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"It appears that haze and smoke have started affecting Nepal as well. Pollution levels seem to be rising in the Tarai, while the air in Kathmandu is becoming polluted remarkably quickly," Pokhrel wrote on social media. "With air pollution likely to increase further in the coming days, attention must be given to reducing local sources of pollution. Burning waste and vehicles emitting excessive smoke could make the situation worse."
He also warned that smoke from crop residue burning in India could enter Nepal if wind patterns are favourable.
Pokhrel said controlling air pollution requires avoiding the burning of waste, regularly maintaining vehicles and keeping track of local air quality.
"If wind patterns are favourable, smoke from stubble burning in India could also drift into Nepal. Let us avoid burning waste, maintain our vehicles regularly and stay informed about air quality in our areas. Our own efforts are also necessary to ensure clean air," he said.
He stressed the need for individuals and communities to take precautions to prevent further deterioration in air quality.
