As peak forest fire season nears, concern grows over worsening air pollution
Summary
Kathmandu Valley is facing toxic air quality as the peak forest fire season nears, with concerns that worsening wildfires due to prolonged drought and accumulated biomass will further degrade air quality and public health.
Key Points
- Air quality in Kathmandu Valley has deteriorated to toxic levels ahead of the peak forest fire season in April-May.
- Forest fires in Nepal, largely started intentionally, threaten ecological and public health and are expected to increase due to ongoing dry conditions and biomass buildup.
- The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority currently lacks a focal person for forest fire management, highlighting governmental complacency.
- Air pollution is the leading risk factor for death and disability in Nepal, severely impacting health and the economy with an estimated cost exceeding 6% of GDP annually.
