A joint study conducted by Tribhuvan University and the Nepal Health Research Council has revealed that hospital admissions for respiratory diseases in Kathmandu Valley have increased by 300 percent over the last ten years. The research attributes this dramatic rise primarily to deteriorating air quality caused by vehicle emissions, construction dust, and brick kiln operations.

The study, which analyzed health records of over 50,000 patients, found that children under five and adults over 65 are disproportionately affected. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and bronchitis cases have surged, with winter months recording the highest pollution levels and corresponding hospitalization spikes.

Air quality monitoring stations across the valley consistently record PM2.5 levels three to eight times above WHO guidelines. Researchers estimate that air pollution is now responsible for approximately 9,000 premature deaths annually in Nepal, with the Kathmandu Valley accounting for nearly a third of that figure.

The researchers have recommended immediate policy interventions, including stricter vehicle emission standards, relocation of brick kilns outside the valley, expansion of electric public transport, and establishment of a comprehensive air quality management framework. The government has indicated it will review the findings and incorporate them into the upcoming National Clean Air Action Plan.