Kathmandu, Nov. 3 -- A recent study has revealed that air pollution from brick kilns operating within the Kathmandu Valley is seriously affecting the health of workers and nearby residents. The research, published last week in the scientific journal Atmospheric Pollution Research, highlights dangerously high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in areas surrounding the kilns.

The study found that PM2.5 levels near communities around brick kilns were 17 times higher than the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended annual limit, and levels inside the kiln premises were 30 times higher. For reference, WHO recommends an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 5 ug/m, while Nepal's standard allows a daily average of 40.

During kiln ...