KATHMANDU: Air pollution in Kathmandu continues to be a serious issue. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded this morning (Sunday), Kathmandu ranks second worldwide for air pollution.

At present, Delhi, India, holds the top position for air pollution, while Lahore, Pakistan, is in third place.

The AQI in Kathmandu is currently 204, while Delhi’s AQI is at 249, and Lahore’s stands at 202. Despite some slight improvements in air quality due to winds in the Kathmandu Valley on Friday and Saturday, the situation remains hazardous.

Doctors have cautioned that the air quality in Kathmandu has reached levels that pose risks to human health.

Experts believe the pollution is a result of accumulated dust in the atmosphere, caused by an extended dry spell, and smoke from nearby forest fires.

The Ministry of Health has issued advisories, urging the public to exercise caution as Nepal’s air quality continues to be among the worst in the world.

Health experts advise minimizing outdoor activities, particularly during the morning and evening, to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an AQI below 35 is considered safe for human health, with 50 being the threshold for normal air quality.