- High levels of vehicle emissions: Kathmandu has a growing population and a rapidly expanding economy, and this has led to an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads. Many of these vehicles are old and emit high levels of pollutants, which contributes to the air pollution problem in the city.
- Burning of fossil fuels for cooking and heating: Many people in Kathmandu rely on wood, coal, and other fossil fuels for cooking and heating, which contributes to air pollution.
- Dust and construction debris: The construction boom in Kathmandu has contributed to air pollution by generating dust and debris.
- Lack of proper waste management: Kathmandu generates a large amount of waste, and the lack of proper waste management infrastructure has contributed to pollution in the city.
- Industrial pollution: There are a number of industries located in and around Kathmandu, and these industries contribute to air and water pollution in the city.
- Lack of enforcement of environmental regulations: Despite the existence of environmental regulations in Nepal, they are often not properly enforced, which allows polluting activities to continue.
- Lack of public transportation: The lack of a reliable and efficient public transportation system in Kathmandu has contributed to the high levels of vehicle emissions in the city.
- Geographical location: Kathmandu is located in a valley, which can trap pollutants and contribute to higher levels of air pollution.
- Lack of green spaces: The lack of green spaces in Kathmandu limits the ability of the city to absorb pollutants and can contribute to higher levels of air pollution.
- Population growth: The growing population of Kathmandu has put additional pressure on the city’s resources and infrastructure, which has contributed to pollution.