Kathmandu: Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has launched an initiative to monitor air pollution levels in the capital, following Kathmandu’s ranking as one of the most polluted cities globally. The installation of air quality measuring devices has begun at 18 locations across the city, with the aim of providing real-time data on air pollution levels.
On Tuesday, KMC Deputy Mayor Sunita Dangol inaugurated the installation of the first device at the roadside area near Kathmandu Plaza, which houses the KMC’s central office. Additional devices were placed at the Chhatrapati Free Clinic Hospital in Ward 17 and Shanti Vidya Griha Secondary School in Ward 26, Lainchaur.
The move is part of a broader effort to tackle air pollution through the collaboration of KMC’s Environmental Management Department and the Partnership for Healthy Cities. The Partnership for Healthy Cities is a global network of 70 cities dedicated to reducing non-communicable diseases and injuries. KMC is an active member of this network.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Mayor Dangol emphasized KMC’s commitment to combating pollution through both internal initiatives and partnerships with global health organizations.
The newly installed air pollution measuring devices, the Clarity Node-S sensors, are designed to provide real-time data on particulate matter (PM 2.5) levels in the air. These devices are powered by solar energy, and the data collected is transmitted to the KMC’s central dashboard. In the future, the KMC plans to make the air quality data publicly accessible through a web portal and mobile application, enabling residents to monitor the air quality in real-time.
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve air quality, the KMC is working on a series of measures aimed at reducing pollution levels and improving the health and well-being of Kathmandu’s residents.