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Air Quality Index (AQI) in Nepal ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ต

Kathmandu Air Quality Index

AQI INDEX
133
US EPA Standard

PM 2.5 Level
48
ยตg/mยณ

US EPA Index
3
Sensitive

Live Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Levels in Nepal

Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is measured at a score of 133. According to the US EPA health standard, this air quality rating is categorized as Sensitive. The current atmosphere in Kathmandu is influenced by a PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) concentration of 48.5 ยตg/mยณ and PM10 levels recorded at 78.9 ยตg/mยณ. Monitoring of gaseous pollutants shows Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) at 21.2 ยตg/mยณ.

Beyond the primary urban hubs, atmospheric conditions and smog levels fluctuate across Nepal based on industrial output, traffic density, and local weather patterns. Real-time pollution data and respiratory health alerts are also being actively monitored in cities like Bharatpur, Pฤtan, Birgaรฑj, Biratnagar and Dhangaแธhiฬ‡ฬ„. Tracking these air quality metrics is essential for residents nationwide to manage outdoor exposure and maintain respiratory safety during periods of increased particulate concentration.

Nepal Air Quality: Major Cities Index

Pollution Monitor & AQI Forecast: Nepal Regions

* Air Quality Index (AQI) data for Nepal is calculated using the US EPA standard. Information is processed from multiple monitoring stations detecting PM2.5, PM10, and gaseous pollutants to ensure accuracy for respiratory health planning.

Browse Air Quality in Nepal by cities in alphabetical order:

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Frequently Asked Questions about Air Quality in Nepal

What is the air quality in Nepal right now?

The current AQI in Kathmandu (capital of Nepal) is 133 โ€” categorised as Sensitive. Conditions vary across the country โ€” see AQI for all cities for a complete picture.

Which city in Nepal has the worst air quality right now?

Right now, Gaur has the highest AQI reading in Nepal at 158 (Unhealthy).

Which city in Nepal has the best air quality right now?

Pokhara currently has the lowest AQI in Nepal at 74 (Moderate).

What is the PM2.5 level in Kathmandu today?

The PM2.5 (fine particulate) concentration in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is currently 48.5 ยตg/mยณ. The WHO 24-hour guideline is 15 ยตg/mยณ.

Is the air in Nepal safe to breathe today?

Most cities in Nepal currently report acceptable air-quality levels, though local conditions vary.

What are the cleanest cities in Nepal right now?

Top 5 cities in Nepal with the best (lowest) AQI right now:

  • Pokhara: AQI 74 โ€” Moderate
  • Birendranagar: AQI 80 โ€” Moderate
  • Banepฤ: AQI 87 โ€” Moderate
  • Panauti: AQI 87 โ€” Moderate
  • Bhimdatta: AQI 92 โ€” Moderate
What are the most polluted cities in Nepal right now?

Top 5 cities in Nepal with the worst (highest) AQI right now:

  • Gaur: AQI 158 โ€” Unhealthy
  • Birgaรฑj: AQI 156 โ€” Sensitive
  • Hetauda: AQI 154 โ€” Sensitive
  • Janakpur: AQI 152 โ€” Sensitive
  • Siraha: AQI 152 โ€” Sensitive

Understanding Air Quality Levels

Good (0-50)

Air is fresh and healthy. Safe for all outdoor activities.

Moderate (51-100)

Acceptable air quality, though sensitive groups should monitor comfort.

Unhealthy (Sensitive) (101-150)

Vulnerable groups (children, elderly) should limit outdoor exertion.

Unhealthy (151-200)

Everyone begins to experience health effects. Stay indoors where possible.

Very Unhealthy (201-300)

Significant health impact for entire population. Emergency conditions.

Hazardous (301+)

Serious health alert: everyone may experience serious life-threatening effects.

Good (0-12)

Fine particles are at minimal, safe levels. Air is optimal.

Moderate (12-35)

Acceptable air, but haze may be present in urban areas.

Sensitive (35-55)

Individuals with heart or lung disease should limit activity.

Unhealthy (55-150)

Particulate levels high enough to cause respiratory irritation.

Very Unhealthy (150-250)

Heavy haze. High risk to cardiovascular health for the public.

Hazardous (250+)

Lethal particulate concentrations. Critical neurological and lung risk.

Good (0-54)

Low levels of dust and coarse particles. Environment is safe.

Moderate (55-154)

Coarse particles may trigger coughing in sensitive groups.

Sensitive (155-254)

Visible dust pollution. Sensitive groups should avoid heavy labor.

Unhealthy (255-354)

Widespread respiratory impacts likely for the population.

Very Unhealthy (355-424)

Dangerous dust and debris levels. Significant warnings issued.

Hazardous (425+)

Extremely high concentrations. Stay inside with filtration.

Good (0-54)

Surface ozone levels are within a safe, natural range.

Moderate (55-70)

Acceptable air, but sensitive individuals may feel chest tightness.

Sensitive (71-85)

Rising ozone can trigger airway inflammation in active children.

Unhealthy (86-105)

Avoid heavy outdoor work during the hottest part of the day.

Very Unhealthy (106-200)

Serious lung function reduction likely across the public.

Hazardous (201+)

Emergency ozone levels. Risk of permanent lung tissue damage.

Good (0-53)

Nitrogen levels are optimal. Safe for everyone.

Moderate (54-100)

Typical background levels for high-density urban areas.

Sensitive (101-360)

Increased risk of respiratory infections for vulnerable groups.

Unhealthy (361-649)

Significant airway inflammation likely near traffic zones.

Very Unhealthy (650-1249)

Acute respiratory distress potential. High-risk groups stay indoors.

Hazardous (1250+)

Toxic concentrations. Immediate health precautions required.

Good (0-4.4)

Carbon Monoxide levels are clean and non-toxic.

Moderate (4.5-9.4)

Acceptable; may affect those with specific heart conditions.

Sensitive (9.5-12.4)

Reduced oxygen delivery to the heart may occur.

Unhealthy (12.5-15.4)

Headaches and fatigue may occur in urban canyons.

Very Unhealthy (15.5-30.4)

Significant cardiovascular distress. Mental confusion possible.

Hazardous (30.5+)

Lethal potential. Immediate risk of neurological collapse.

Good (0-35)

Optimal air quality with no sulfur detection.

Moderate (36-75)

Acceptable air; minor odors possible near industry.

Sensitive (76-185)

Bronchoconstriction possible for active asthmatics.

Unhealthy (186-304)

Respiratory distress likely for the wider population.

Very Unhealthy (305-604)

Significant wheezing and shortness of breath likely.

Hazardous (605+)

Extreme respiratory danger. Significant life risk.