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| Kathmandu, Wednesday September 10, 2003 Bhadra 24, 2060. |
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Quest for fresh air
Fresh and pure air is becoming more and more a
rarity in the congested capital. A recent survey report said the concentration of dust
particles in Kathmandu’s air has increased over three-fold within a decade. This is
quite apart from other pollutants like vehicle emissions that also directly affect the
quality of air in the capital. In addition, the high decibel noise that permeates
everywhere in the city is also having a direct adverse effect on the health of its
denizens. The survey indicated that the incidence of lung-related disease has increased
because of air pollution. It is alarming that the Patan Hospital recorded two-fold
increase in the number of patients visiting the hospital with lung disease. Such patients
visiting Bir and Teaching hospitals also recorded a significant rise.
With the number of vehicles increasing each day,
and the growing population pressure in the city, the situation can only worsen unless
something meaningful and substantial is done. The government set up years ago emission
standards for vehicles but they have not been effective enough because of a number of
reasons. It is not all that difficult to get the green "all clear" sticker even
for vehicles emitting toxic fumes. There is obviously a dire need for enforcing government
policies and programmes earnestly.
But it will be futile for the people to look up
to the government to do everything which it simply cannot. Public awareness about the
hazards of air and noise pollution is essential. A large number of environment related
non-governmental organisations and international agencies operating in the country would
do well along with the media to make Nepalis, especially those living in the Kathmandu
Valley, more aware of the value of fresh and clean air.
It is only when the people become aware that the
government and other authorised agencies can act decisively to bring down the level of air
pollution. The huge amount of money spent for the treatment of diseases caused by air
pollution can be saved and used elsewhere. The realisation that minute dust particles
suspended in the air can be harmful should help the people to be more concerned about
their own health and that of their family members. But in the drive against pollution, it
is essential that honest and effective implementation of existing rules and regulations,
and formulation of suitable new rules be carried out without fear and bias. Political
leaders, who run the country, would do well not to interfere in the work of government
employees. Then only will the quest for healthy air be meaningful. |
