KATHMANDU: Air pollution has reached alarming levels in the Kathmandu Valley over the past week. As per the air quality data from IQAir, Kathmandu is currently the most polluted city in the world.

The average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the valley is now 193, categorizing it as “unhealthy.” While this represents a slight improvement from the previous day, the city still faces severe pollution levels. Wuhan, China, which ranks second, has an AQI of 166.

The AQI scale classifies air quality as follows: an AQI of 0 to 50 is considered good for health; 51 to 100 is moderate; 101 to 150 is unhealthy for sensitive groups; 151 to 200 is unhealthy; 201 to 300 is very unhealthy; and any level above 301 is deemed hazardous and poses serious health risks.

The Department of Hydrology and Meteorology has strongly advised the public to limit outdoor activities during high pollution periods, urging people to stay indoors except for essential activities.

This warning is particularly important during the months of April, May, and June, when the risk of wildfires and escalating pollution is heightened.