The Nepali word for pollution is ‘pradushan’ which is easy to remember because Kathmandu produshes a lot of pollution.
The government has recently clamped down on noise pollution by banning the use of horns by all vehicles except in emergencies. I laughed when I heard that because most drivers use their horn more often than their brakes. I thought it would be impossible to change the habit of a lifetime.
However, two weeks of spot fines later, the noise level on the roads is transformed! Cyclists no longer have to wear ear plugs. Even traffic jams are quiet. Travel around the city is more relaxed.
Noise pollution is much easier to deal with than air pollution. The visible signs of pollution are obvious, with so many road works the city is incredibly dusty. However the pollution we don’t see is more dangerous to health. Newspapers publish daily pollution levels which helps to keep attention on the matter.
The government has recently produced a plan to alleviate air pollution. We’re all hoping it will be effective, Kathmandu could be such a beautiful city.
ps. still waiting for news re our visas.