Friday, February 20th, 2026

One-third of vehicles fail emission test as surprise pollution checks intensify in Kathmandu Valley



KATHMANDU: The Department of Environment has intensified surprise inspections on roads across the Kathmandu Valley to reduce air pollution caused by motor vehicles.

As part of the drive, on-the-spot emission tests were conducted on diesel and petrol vehicles plying the Baneshwor–Maitighar road section on Wednesday.

A total of 36 diesel and petrol vehicles were inspected during the operation. Of them, 12 vehicles failed to meet the prescribed emission standards, accounting for around 33–34 percent of the tested vehicles.

Vehicles that failed the test have been advised to undergo necessary maintenance and ensure compliance with emission standards before resuming operation. The Valley Traffic Police Office also imposed fines on vehicles found violating the rules.

According to Mechanical Engineer Laxmi Shrestha of the Department of Environment, the inspection was carried out as part of ongoing efforts to control air pollution by reducing and regulating pollutants emitted from vehicles.

She said the one-hour surprise check was conducted jointly by the Department of Environment and the Valley Traffic Police Office as part of the government’s broader initiative to improve air quality in the Kathmandu Valley.

Photos: Nepal Photo Library

Publish Date : 07 January 2026 19:06 PM

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