KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Valley has dropped to second place globally for air pollution today, following its position as the most polluted city in the world yesterday. New Delhi, India, now holds the top spot for air pollution.

Experts attribute Kathmandu’s high pollution levels to accumulated dust in the air, caused by a prolonged dry spell, as well as smoke from nearby forest fires.

According to the ‘Air Quality Index’ (AQI), Kathmandu is currently ranked second worldwide for air pollution. As of 7:25 am, Kathmandu’s AQI stands at 249, indicating unhealthy pollution levels. In comparison, Delhi’s AQI is 353, making it the most polluted city today.

Lahore, Pakistan, holds the third position with an AQI of 178.

Medical experts have warned that the air quality in Kathmandu is now hazardous to health. They advise people to stay indoors, particularly in the morning, to minimize exposure to harmful air.

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers an AQI below 35 to be safe for human health. AQI levels between 51 and 100 are considered moderate but require caution, while values between 101 and 150 can affect individuals with heart or respiratory conditions. Any AQI over 150 is categorized as unhealthy.

An AQI of 201 to 300 is labeled very unhealthy, and values above 301 are considered dangerous, with AQI levels of 401 to 450 categorized as extremely hazardous.