KATHMANDU:- Air pollution levels in the Kathmandu Valley have increased, with the Air Quality Index rising from 178 on Monday afternoon to 191 today. This level is considered unhealthy for everyone under the US Environmental Protection Agency standards.

With the current AQI, Kathmandu Valley has ranked as the third most polluted city in the world. New Delhi tops the list with an AQI of 229, followed by Lahore at 203.

Director General of the Department of Environment, Gyan Raj Subedi, said pollution levels could rise further due to the continued absence of rainfall. He urged concerned stakeholders to adopt sustainable and environment-friendly measures.

Environmental expert Barsha Parajuli attributed the rise in pollution to increasing vehicle emissions, road and infrastructure construction dust, forest fires, and prolonged drought, warning that the situation could worsen if not addressed in time.

Health experts advise children, older people, and those with respiratory problems to limit outdoor activities as pollution remains at unhealthy levels.