As smog season looms, experts urge early action on air pollution
Summary
Experts urge early preventive action to tackle worsening air pollution as smog season approaches in Nepal, highlighting its severe health and environmental impacts.
Key Points
- Operation of long-distance vehicles was suspended for three days in early October to prepare for flooding and landslides.
- Air pollution, which worsens in winter, poses serious health risks including pneumonia, bronchitis, and heart problems.
- Preventive measures like banning open burning, controlling emissions from brick kilns, and reducing forest fires can improve air quality.
- Polluted air is estimated to cut Nepalis' lives short by around five years, becoming the leading risk factor for death and disability in the country.
