Nawalparasi, Chaitra 24, Nepal – Air pollution levels in the western regions of Nepal, particularly in Nawalparasi District, have reached alarming levels, sparking widespread concern. Recent data indicates that the air quality index (AQI) in the area has reached 173, categorized as “Unhealthy,” posing significant health risks for residents. According to reports from Lumbini Agro Environment Lab Pvt. Ltd. (www.lumbiniagrolab.com.np), levels of PM2.5 have been recorded at 82 micrograms per cubic meter, and PM10 at 91 micrograms per cubic meter.
भारतको पंजाव क्षेत्रमा भएको आगलागी र प्रदुषणको मौसमी फैलावट (स्रोत : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1309104221003329)
The situation has worsened over the past week, with the surrounding regions experiencing severe air pollution. A significant factor contributing to this crisis is the ongoing practice of crop residue burning in areas such as Punjab, India. The toxic particles released into the atmosphere from the burning of wheat stubble are carried by wind currents across the border into Nepal, further exacerbating the pollution levels.
नवलपरासी जिल्ला वर-पर आगलागीको अवस्था (स्रोत : https://www.iqair.com/)
A study published in the journal ScienceDirect (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1309104221003329) sheds light on the relationship between crop residue burning and wind speed, indicating that winds from the affected regions in India have been transporting pollutants into Nepal, particularly affecting the Terai region, including Nawalparasi and Kailali. The study emphasizes that these agricultural practices, along with forest fires, contribute to the air pollution in these areas.
In addition to agricultural residue burning, forest fires in Nawalparasi and its surroundings are playing a significant role in worsening air quality. IQAir, a global air quality monitoring organization, reports that the region is currently experiencing active forest fires, further increasing the concentration of harmful pollutants in the atmosphere. These fires, coupled with the seasonal agricultural practices, have significantly elevated pollution levels.
भुमही क्षेत्रमा वायु गुणस्तरको तथ्यांक ( स्रोत: https://lumbiniagrolab.com.np/)
The air quality in the Kathmandu Valley has also reached unhealthy levels, with an AQI of 170 recorded at 1:45 PM today. The PM2.5 concentration in Kathmandu is reported to be 83 micrograms per cubic meter. This high pollution level not only impacts Kathmandu but also poses a potential risk to neighboring regions like Nawalparasi, as air pollutants easily travel through the atmosphere.
The health consequences of such high levels of pollution are a growing concern. Health experts warn that exposure to these elevated levels of particulate matter can lead to respiratory problems such as chest congestion, asthma, and other pulmonary diseases. The vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are at greater risk.
In response to the rising pollution levels, local authorities and health professionals are advising residents to take preventive measures, such as wearing masks when going outdoors, staying hydrated, and seeking shelter in clean, ventilated spaces. These measures are crucial to mitigate the immediate health risks posed by the polluted air.
Experts have called for urgent and coordinated efforts from the government, local authorities, and the public to address the issue of air pollution. There is a growing need to find alternatives to the traditional practice of crop residue burning, control forest fires, and raise awareness about the long-term health impacts of air pollution. Additionally, the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices and the adoption of better waste management strategies could help reduce the release of harmful pollutants into the air.
As the situation continues to worsen, it is clear that a multi-faceted approach involving policy changes, community engagement, and technological innovation is essential to combat the severe air pollution in Nawalparasi and other affected regions of Nepal. Only through collective action can the residents of the Terai region and beyond begin to breathe cleaner air and safeguard their health for the future.
