KATHMANDU: The Ministry of Forests and Environment has called on the public to refrain from burning waste that contains plastic or agricultural remnants, highlighting the significant negative impact such practices have on the environment.
In a notice issued today, the Ministry also urged all relevant stakeholders to ensure regular maintenance of motor vehicles, promote the use of clean energy in industries and households, and take adequate measures to control smoke and dust pollution from roads and construction sites.
The Ministry's appeal comes in response to the rising levels of air pollution in the Terai region and the Kathmandu Valley over the past few weeks.
Industries, factories, motor vehicles, wildfires, the burning of agricultural waste, and dust from roads and construction activities are identified as the main contributors to the worsening air quality.
Additionally, the Ministry reminded the public that vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, heart patients, people with respiratory issues, and pregnant women, are particularly at risk from the harmful effects of air pollution.