Kathmandu Metropolitan City's Department of Environmental Management has banned the burning of plastic, plastic-based products, and garbage in open spaces.

The ban on burning garbage, plastic and other items in open spaces has been imposed, citing the increase in the number of people burning garbage, plastic and other items in open spaces as the cold weather sets in. 

The air pollution level in the valley has been increasing significantly during the winter months. Open burning of items plays a significant role in the increase in pollution. ‘This decision has been taken to reduce the adverse impact on public health and the environment,’ said Sarita Rai, head of the department.

Air pollution affects children, senior citizens, people with respiratory diseases such as asthma, heart problems and people facing chronic diseases more. To protect the health and environment of all city dwellers, including those people, open burning of items should be reduced to reduce smoke emissions.