Health Alert: Capital Ranks 2nd Globally in Air Pollution Rankings
Air quality in Kathmandu has reached critical levels, with the capital ranking as the second most polluted city in the world today after the AQI surged to a staggering 216.
On Thursday, April 23, 2026 (Baisakh 10), Kathmandu's atmosphere recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 216, categorizing the air as "Very Unhealthy" according to World Health Organization (WHO) standards. This spike has placed Nepal's capital at the top of global pollution charts, trailing only one other city. Health experts warn that while an AQI above 150 is harmful to everyone, levels exceeding 200 present severe risks to the general public, necessitating immediate precautions. With the current air quality nearing the "Hazardous" threshold (300+), residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure and wear protective masks to mitigate respiratory risks.