When the air is clean

Mt Everest (arrow) hidden behind Mt Kang Nachugo and Mt Chobutse from Chobar in Kathmandu on 10 May. Photos: ABHUSHAN GAUTAM

The reduction of vehicular emission due to the COVID-19 lockdown has cleaned the air over Nepal and northern India. So much so that the Himalaya is visible from Chandigarh, Kangchenjunga is visible from Siliguri. And for the first time in many years, Mt Everest can be seen again from Kathmandu Valley even though it is 200km away.

Despite the sharp reduction in fossil fuel consumption due to restricted mobility, air quality of Kathmandu did not improve as much as expected in April. The reason was wildfires in Dhading, Nuwakot and Chitwan in early April and open garbage burning in the Valley, as well as crossborder haze. 

Nepal lockdown proves air quality can be improved, Sonia Awale

The lockdown, however, did prove that we can improve Kathmandu’s air quality by reducing vehicular emissions, which contribute 70% of the particulates in the ambient air.

These breathtaking images were taken from Chobar in Kathmandu Valley on 10 May on a remarkably clear evening.

All photos: Abhushan Gautam

A panoramic view of Kathmandu as seen from Chobar on 10 May. From left to right, Gang Chhenpo, Urkinmang, Kangshrum, Gurkapo Ri, Dorje Lakpa, Lonpo Gang, Gyalzen Peak, Phurbi Ghyachu, Choba Bhamare, Gauri Shankar, Kang Nachugo, Mt Everest, Chobutse and Trakar Go.

Gauri Shankar, Kang Nachugo, Mt Everest, Chobutse.

Gurkapo Ri, Dorje Lakpa, Lonpo Gang and Gyalzen Peak.

The ever-growing urban sprawl of the Valley with Gang Chhenpo, Urkinmang, Kangshrum, Gurkapo Ri, Dorje Lakpa, Lonpo Gang, Gyalzen Peak and Phurbi Ghyachu 50km away to the north.

The trinity of Baudhha Himal, Himalchuli and Manaslu are silhouetted to the west of Kathmandu by the sunset.

Coronavirus shutdown gives Nepal’s nature a respite, Mukesh Pokhrel

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