The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that air pollution causes 7 million premature deaths annually, making it the biggest environmental health concern in the world. Industrial emissions, traffic, energy generation, and domestic chores like cooking and heating are some of the causes of air pollution. Delhi, India; Beijing, China; and Karachi, Pakistan is a few of the world's most polluted cities. However, air pollution is a worldwide problem, and it is a problem in many developed places as well. In fact, according to recent studies, air pollution kills more people than smoking, making it a serious public health issue that must be resolved through sustainable development and efficient emission reduction measures.

Nepal has a serious problem with air pollution, especially in large cities like the capital Kathmandu. In Nepal, the PM2.5 level just has exceeded 205 ug/m3 and the PM10 level has reached a staggering 430ug/m3 which has made it the most polluted city in the world. According to ICIMOD, these problems need to be solved immediately. Vehicle emissions, brick kilns, and burning solid fuels for cooking and heating are the main causes of air pollution in Nepal. Asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia are among the most prevalent disorders in Nepal, where air pollution has a serious negative influence on health. Air pollution has a negative impact on everyone's quality of life in the afflicted areas, but it especially harms children and the elderly. The government of Nepal has implemented measures to combat air pollution, such as banning the import of vehicles that don't adhere to emission limits, increasing the use of public transportation, and promoting the use of clean energy sources for cooking and heating. To address this pressing public health and environmental concern, greater efforts are required because the implementation of these policies has been delayed.

References:

https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/icimod-expresses-concern-over-degrading-air-quality