Kathmandu has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world
Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, is currently grappling with a severe air pollution crisis that poses significant health risks to its residents. As the transition period between winter and spring approaches, the city becomes enveloped in a thick blanket of smog, causing discomfort and health issues for its inhabitants. With local sources of pollution and the potential impact of rising global temperatures, the situation calls for urgent attention and action.
The Ministry of Health and Population in Nepal has issued a strong recommendation for residents to wear masks as air pollution levels in the Kathmandu valley reach concerning levels. According to IQAir, a global organization that monitors pollution in cities, Kathmandu has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world.
Image source- The Kathmandu Post
Local Sources of Pollution:
Kathmandu’s air pollution is primarily caused by local sources, including vehicle emissions and construction dust. The city’s rapid urbanization has led to an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads, contributing to the release of harmful pollutants into the air. Additionally, ongoing construction projects generate significant amounts of dust particles, further exacerbating the pollution levels.
Geographical Factors:
The geography of Kathmandu exacerbates the air pollution problem. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by hills, which traps pollutants and prevents their dispersion. This geographical feature creates a “bowl effect,” trapping pollutants and leading to the formation of smog. As a result, the pollution levels in Kathmandu tend to be higher compared to other cities.
Impact on Health:
The deteriorating air quality in Kathmandu has severe implications for the health of its residents. Exposure to high levels of air pollution can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and other health complications. Saraswati Adhikari, a resident of Kathmandu, shared her experience of discomfort and health issues, including burning eyes, respiratory discomfort, and excessive mucus, while going for her morning walks.
Air pollution can have detrimental effects on various aspects of health, including the heart, blood vessels, lungs, brain, eyes, nose, ears, and throat. It also increases the risk of asthma, cancer, and other diseases. Vulnerable groups such as children under five, pregnant women, individuals with chronic illnesses, and the elderly are particularly at risk, with air pollution being a leading cause of annual deaths in Nepal.
Shockingly, air pollution has been found to reduce the average life expectancy of Nepalese citizens by 4.1%.
The Ministry of Health and Population has reported an increase in hospital admissions across the country due to the combined effects of rising summer temperatures and pollution.
Global Climate Change:
The rising global temperatures also play a role in exacerbating the air pollution crisis in Kathmandu. Changes in weather patterns, such as reduced rainfall and prolonged dry periods, can intensify the pollution levels. Moreover, the increasing temperatures contribute to the longer duration of the transition period between weather systems, which is a significant contributor to air pollution due to wildfires, both natural and human-induced.
Ranking and Statistics:
Ten most polluted countries in the world according to the 2023 Air Quality Report by monitoring platform IQAir
Kathmandu consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the world, particularly during the transition period between winter and spring. The city’s air pollution problem is alarming, with an estimated 5,000 deaths annually attributed to poor air quality. In terms of pollution rankings, Kathmandu takes the top spot for having “unhealthy air” globally. Following closely behind are cities like New Delhi, Chiang Mai (Thailand), Hanoi (Vietnam), Bangkok (Thailand), and Dhaka (Bangladesh).
The Ministry has provided a health advisory, urging the public to minimize outdoor activities, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay away from highly polluted areas. The significant levels of air pollutants in Kathmandu pose serious health risks.
