Friday, August 28th, 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

59 injured in Bhotekoshi flood receiving treatment at Kathmandu hospitals

KATHMANDU: As many as 59 people injured in the Bhotekoshi

Rasuwa flood: 13,295 security personnel mobilized for search and rescue; 1,976 people rescued

KATHMANDU: A total of 13,295 security personnel, 15 helicopters and

Cabinet meeting taking place today

KATHMANDU: A meeting of the Council of Ministers is scheduled to

Rasuwa flash floods: Death toll rises to 469

KATHMANDU: The death toll from the devastating flash floods in

Prithvi Highway remains blocked for three days

KATHMANDU: The Prithvi Highway remains blocked along the Kathmandu–Muglin–Narayangadh road