Air pollution clouds health, tourism, and economy in Nepal
Summary
Air pollution in Nepal, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5), is causing severe health risks, disrupting tourism, and imposing significant economic costs, with projections warning of worsening conditions without urgent interventions.
Key Points
- Pokhara and other tourist regions in Nepal are experiencing severe air pollution disrupting tourism and air travel.
- Air pollution, especially PM2.5, is the leading risk factor for death and disability in Nepal, surpassing malnutrition and tobacco use.
- The World Bank reports that air pollution causes over 26,000 premature deaths annually in Nepal, with welfare losses amounting to over 10% of GDP.
- Nepal’s tax incentives for electric vehicles have made them more affordable, helping reduce pollution from the transport sector, though further measures and regional cooperation are needed.
