High pollution has been the norm in 2025

Emissions from forest fires include carbon monoxide, fine particulate matter in the form of PM2.5, and black carbon. When breathed in, these finer particles of this pollution can enter the bloodstream and lead to respiratory conditions and even death.

As air quality in Kathmandu hit the hazardous or extremely hazardous category recently, new ICIMOD analysis shows that high pollution has been the norm in 2025, with inhabitants suffering 75/90 days of unhealthy air in the past three months.

Experts at the centre attribute the spike to pre-monsoon forest fires across Nepal, especially in the west, where many districts are in moderate to extreme drought. On April 3, the Government of Nepal’s Air Quality Monitoring dashboard recorded a 24-hour AQI of 365 (Bhaktapur), 273 (Shankapark), 248(Ratnapark), 235 (Bhaisipati), and 235(Khumaltar). 

Sagar Adhikari, Air Pollution Analyst, ICIMOD, says, “The prevailing dry conditions have led to more instances of forest fires across the country. In addition to the existing pollution being emitted from different sectors, i.e., residential, transport, and dust, forest fires have worsened these conditions. Existing meteorological conditions are also leading to pollution stagnating over the valley.”

Notable emissions coming from forest fires include carbon monoxide, fine particulate matter in the form of PM2.5, and black carbon. When breathed in, these finer particles of this pollution can enter the bloodstream and lead to respiratory conditions and even death.

For more information, visit: https://www.icimod.org/press-release/kathmandu-choked-on-polluted-air-for-75-of-the-last-90-days/