KATHMANDU: Recent adverse weather conditions have led to rising air pollution levels, with PM 2.5 (fine particulate matter) reaching significant levels in major cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, as well as most locations in the Terai region.

The Department of Environment under the Ministry of Forests and Environment has urged citizens to take precautions, including wearing masks outdoors during high pollution periods, maintaining vehicles regularly, and avoiding the burning of waste or crop residues. The department emphasized public cooperation to help prevent such burning practices.

Director General Gyan Raj Subedi also requested people not to start forest fires and to extinguish any that occur. He further advised managing construction activities to reduce dust and ensuring industries comply with government pollution standards.

The department noted that seasonal factors contribute to high pollution: emissions from various sources fail to disperse due to cold conditions, coupled with a prolonged lack of rainfall. Pollution peaks during morning and evening hours, and mitigation requires the collective effort of all responsible agencies and citizens.