Everyone now feels that the Kathmandu Valley has recorded a remarkable improvement in its air quality since the lockdown began some five weeks ago. As the valley's sky has now become much cleaner as compared to the past, one can easily see far and wide. It was haze and smog that used to block the valley's view before imposing the lockdown to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. The main reason for the enhanced air quality is the existing ban on movement of vehicles. Closing down industries and factories, including most polluting brick kilns, is another factor contributing to the drastic reduction in the level of air pollution. With various flowers now in full bloom, the valley looks very beautiful. Roads and streets also seem dust-free, thanks to frequent rains. It needs no mention that air pollution poses threats to the environment and human health.
However, the valley is sure to regain its bad image as one of the most polluted cities in the world once the lockdown is lifted. In the absence of better public transport system, rickety and other pollution emitting vehicles ply the valley's jammed roads. Despite its unparalleled scenic beauty and numerous wonderful heritage sites, and the rich culture of its denizens, the valley has lost its pride due to increasing air and water pollution. Excessive population is one of the reasons for the environmental deterioration of the valley as more people from different parts of the country come here annually in search of better opportunities for life. The valley is surrounded by high mountains ranging from 2,000 to 2800 metres above sea level. The valley has a distinctive bowl-shaped topography that stops the movement of wind and retains the pollutants in its air. So, the valley is vulnerable to air pollution. Most of the rivers and rivulets flowing through the valley, including the holy Bagmati, Bishnumati and Manohara, have become quite polluted. Various efforts underway to restore them are yet to become so effective.
However, according to a news report published in this daily, Kathmandu’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has changed for the better with the imposition of the lockdown. On Tuesday (April 28), Kathmandu recorded its AQI at 85 as measured at Phora Durbar by the air quality monitor installed by the United States (US) Embassy based in Kathmandu. The figure is regarded as moderate. This is certainly a remarkable change. During normal days, Kathmandu’s AQI ranged between 150 and 180 (classified as unhealthy). As diesel-run vehicles are the key source of pollution in the valley, environmental experts say that the valley's environment could be improved through replacing such vehicles with electric ones. The vehicles run on traditional fuels like petrol and diesel emit a lot of smoke and harmful gases. People may suffer from various non-communicable diseases like respiratory problems, heart ailments and cancer when they are exposed to polluted air. There is no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic and other respiratory ailments have something to do with air pollution. So, ecologists call for promoting cycling and walking to remain healthy instead of purchasing vehicles. The increase in the number of vehicles means a rising pollution level. The nation is now in need of a clear policy on it.