Kathmandu is facing a serious air pollution episode, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) nearing 200, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) dominates the pollution, posing health risks, particularly for children, older adults, and people with underlying conditions. The poor air quality is driven by a combination of urban emissions and weather conditions that trap pollutants in the valley. Calm winds and lack of rainfall prevent smoke, dust, and other pollutants from dispersing, allowing them to accumulate in the air.
