KATHMANDU: With air pollution likely to worsen as winter sets in, Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has urged residents to avoid burning plastic waste and other materials that release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere.
Sarita Rai, head of the KMC Environment Department, said vehicle emissions, dust from roads and construction activities, industrial smoke and the burning of plastic waste are among the major sources of air pollution in the capital.
She stressed the need for public cooperation to control pollution, warning that deteriorating air quality poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens and people suffering from asthma and other chronic illnesses.
Rai called on residents and businesses to follow environmental standards and adopt responsible practices to reduce pollution.
The department has also urged vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles meet prescribed emission standards and undergo regular maintenance to minimise the release of harmful gases. Construction materials should not be left scattered on roads or footpaths, as they contribute to dust pollution.
Similarly, industries, factories and hospitals have been asked to comply with the air quality and smoke emission standards outlined in the KMC Pollution Control Standard, 2081 BS, and install and operate appropriate pollution-control equipment.
KMC has stressed that collective efforts from residents, businesses and industrial establishments are essential to improving air quality and protecting public health during the winter months.
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