Drought triggers rise in forest fires and air pollution across Nepal

Kathmandu: Forest fire incidents have begun increasing in various parts of the country, while air pollution has also worsened in areas including the Kathmandu Valley. Data from concerned agencies shows that both fires and pollution have intensified due to a lack of rainfall in recent days and increasingly dry conditions.

The Department of Forest and Soil Conservation stated that dry weather and rising temperatures have heightened the risk of fires, where even a small spark can lead to major incidents. Smoke from forest fires, along with accumulated dust particles in the atmosphere, has further deteriorated air quality in the valley.

Although the month of Chaitra, typically considered a high-risk period for forest fires, recorded a notable decline compared to previous years due to above-average pre-monsoon rainfall, experts warn that the risk is rising again as dry conditions return. According to department data, 466 fire incidents were recorded in Chaitra of fiscal year 2078. This number dropped to 267 in 2079, slightly rose to 249 in 2080, and increased to 331 in 2081. In the current fiscal year 2082, only 79 incidents were recorded, largely due to favorable weather conditions during the pre-monsoon period.

However, the department reports that fire incidents have been increasing again nationwide since the first week of Baisakh. From Baisakh 6 to 9 alone, 102 fire incidents were recorded within four days.

District-wise data shows the highest number of fires in Dang with 17 incidents, followed by 14 in Kapilvastu and nine in Nawalpur. Significant numbers have also been reported in districts including Salyan, Surkhet, and Kailali.

The department further noted a high ‘confidence level’ of fires (above 60 percent) in several districts, with 12 such incidents in Kailali, 11 in Doti, seven in Arghakhanchi, six in Gulmi, and five in Palpa.

Fire risks have also extended to protected areas. The highest number of incidents has been recorded in Chitwan National Park with 23 cases, followed by 10 in Parsa National Park and nine in Banke National Park. Fires have also spread to Bardiya National Park and Shuklaphanta National Park. In total, 57 fire incidents and 33 high-confidence cases have been recorded in protected areas. The department also noted that 15 forest fires occurred between Wednesday and Thursday alone.

Director General of the Department of Forest and Soil Conservation, Dhirendra Kumar Pradhan, said that fire incidents have increased in recent days. “The monsoon had supported us for some time, but conditions have become dry again. Due to the dryness, even a small spark can trigger a fire,” he said. He warned that the situation could worsen if rainfall does not occur soon and highlighted rising temperatures, dry weather, and human negligence as key causes. He stressed the need for increased awareness and preparedness.

Forest officer Vijay Dhakal emphasized the importance of coordination among local governments, security agencies, and communities in controlling forest fires. The public has been urged to avoid setting fires, disposing of ashes carelessly, or using fire irresponsibly in forest areas.

Nepal Forestry Technicians Association President Rakesh Karna stated that effective forest management plays a crucial role in preventing fires. “Where forests are managed systematically, fire incidents are fewer, but in unmanaged areas, the problem is becoming more complex,” he said.

Air pollution has also surged alongside the rise in forest fires. In the Kathmandu Valley, the impact has become increasingly visible. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), pollution levels rose from around 92 on Tuesday afternoon to 196 today. Kathmandu has now ranked as the most polluted city in the world. On Thursday, the AQI further increased to 247, placing it in the ‘very unhealthy’ category.

Director General of the Department of Environment, Gyanraj Subedi, said that weather conditions such as lack of rainfall, low wind speed, and rising temperatures have caused pollutants to accumulate in the atmosphere, worsening air quality.

Environment youth activist Rajan Thapa said that smoke, dust, and fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) from fires are significantly polluting the air. He described the current situation as widespread and serious based on recent data.

According to AQI standards, a score of 0–50 is considered good, 51–100 moderate, 101–150 unhealthy, 151–200 unhealthy for all, 201–300 very unhealthy, and above 300 extremely hazardous. Health experts warn that children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions are at higher risk during periods of severe pollution. People have been advised to avoid going outdoors unless necessary, use masks, and take precautions.

Meteorologist Binu Maharjan of the Department of Water and Meteorology said that although weather conditions are expected to gradually improve, it may take a few more days for fog and heat to subside completely. “Conditions have started improving since Sunday, but we may need to wait until Wednesday for full improvement,” he said. “There is a possibility of good rainfall from next week, which could help control both forest fires and pollution.”

The department has also warned that ‘hot day’ conditions are likely to persist in the Tarai regions, valleys, and gorges of Bagmati, Gandaki, Lumbini, Karnali, Sudurpaschim, and Madhesh provinces. There is also a risk of hot air waves (lu), particularly in the Tarai regions of Lumbini and Sudurpaschim. Meteorologists have urged the public to take necessary precautions against high temperatures and haze.