Stakeholders present 14-point demand to control air pollution

KATHMANDU: Fifteen organizations working in the environment sector have called on all three tiers of government to take immediate and long-term action to reduce the dangerously high levels of air pollution and safeguard public health.

Issuing a joint statement, they urged the government to collaborate with national and international non-governmental organizations, the private sector, civil society, and
community-based organizations to swiftly develop a concrete response plan and implement preventive measures, including widespread health awareness campaigns.

Among others, they have demanded that the government make wearning face marks mandatory in public spaces, including transport and crowded areas; close school temporarily in highly polluted zones to protect children’s health, announce five-day work week for offices in Kathmandu Valley until air quality improves; and immediately enforce odd-even vehicle rule to reduce emissions.

Liekwise, they have called on the government to intensify vehicle inspections and ban outdated, high-emission vehicles; slap penalties for improper waste disposal; initiate legal action against public smoking and careless disposal of cigarette butts or matches; brought those responsible for forest fires to book; and foster community engagement in wildfire prevention through awareness and training.

The 15 organizations have also urged the government to issue real-time public health alerts via media and mobile platforms; launch urban greening initiatives, including widespread tree plantation; monitor pollution effectively and initiate legal action against polluters; provide tax incentives for electric vehicles; and make CSR investments mandatory in pollution control and environmental protection.

The organizations making the appeal include CLEAN UP NEPAL, SEBAC Nepal, BAS Nepal, SOSEC Nepal, NICE Nepalgunj, Bhoomithan Nepal, Yuwalaya, Community Developlment Forum (CDF), GD Labs, Freed Kamalari Development Forum, Dalit Development Society, Dalit Social Development Center (DSDC), SpeakUp Nepal, SEEM Nepal and Himalayan Nature.