KATHMANDU: In an attempt to reduce air pollution in Kathmandu Valley, the Department of Environment has decided to impose heavy fines on vehicles emitting black smoke exceeding the safety standard.

The Department said it will impose a fine of Rs 100,000 on such vehicles from today.

The Department had earlier published a notice saying that the main cause of air pollution is the smoke emitted from vehicles and the open burning of garbage.

It has also urged the concerned to operate vehicles only after meeting the prescribed standards.

The Department said many vehicles operating in the Kathmandu Valley have been found to have emitting smoke exceeding the safety standard.