KATHMANDU: In recent days, the entire country, including Pokhara, has been grappling with worsening air quality attributed to pollution and forest fires across Nepal. Thick smog lingering in the Kaski region has exacerbated pollution levels in Pokhara, prompting Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' to cancel his planned visit to the city on Saturday due to heavy smog that led to the suspension of flights to the Pokhara International Airport. Despite the Prime Minister's declaration of Pokhara as the country’s tourism capital on March 17 this year, flight operations have been severely disrupted, with only a fraction of scheduled flights managing to take off on Friday and further disruptions occurring on Saturday due to the thick smog enveloping the region.

The airport authorities have attributed the flight disruptions to reduced visibility caused by the smog, leading to numerous cancellations and delays. Yogendra Kunwar, the chief of Airport Air Traffic Services (ATS), confirmed the irregular air traffic over the past week, but announced the resumption of regular flights to and from Pokhara from 1:00 pm Sunday. However, the adverse air quality has taken a toll on public health, with an increase in patients reporting burning eyes and respiratory issues attributed to pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a peak of 288 on Saturday, though it slightly decreased to 172 by Sunday, indicating unhealthy air conditions.

At the Himalayan Eye Hospital in Pokhara, there has been a notable surge in patients presenting with eye allergies and irritation, highlighting the detrimental impact of deteriorating air quality on public health. Dr. Indra Man Maharjan, an ophthalmologist at the hospital, expressed concern over the escalating health issues exacerbated by poor air quality, stressing the need for urgent measures to address air pollution. Similarly, tourists visiting Pokhara, hoping for clear views of the Himalayas, have been disappointed by the haze and reduced visibility caused by the smog, affecting outdoor activities and trekking routes in the Annapurna region.

Dr. Lekhendra Tripathi, an environmentalist, underscored the disappointment caused by haze along trekking routes in the Annapurna region and urged for immediate government intervention to mitigate air pollution. Experts like Dr. Subash Adhikari emphasized the importance of implementing policies to curb air pollution and raising public awareness about its adverse effects. Dr. Rabindra Pandey highlighted the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to smog and advised residents to take precautions such as staying indoors, wearing masks outdoors, and seeking medical assistance for respiratory ailments.