KATHMANDU, April 23: Kathmandu has ranked as the second most polluted city in the world, according to Switzerland-based air quality monitoring organization IQAir.
On Thursday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 211, placing it in the “very unhealthy” category. Earlier in the morning, the AQI had peaked at 247. An AQI level between 201 and 300 is considered very unhealthy.
Kathmandu tops the list of polluted cities in the world
Pakistan’s Lahore ranked first on the list, with an AQI of 247, which had surged to as high as 382 earlier in the day.
According to air quality standards approved by the Government of Nepal, an AQI of 0–50 is considered good, 51–100 moderate, 101–150 unhealthy for sensitive groups, 151–200 unhealthy, and 201–300 very unhealthy. Any level above 301 is categorized as hazardous.
Air pollution at such levels significantly increases the risk of respiratory problems, eye irritation, and headaches. Experts have advised people to avoid going outdoors unless necessary, wear masks, and ensure extra precautions for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
