A cycle rally was conducted in the capital, Kathmandu, to create awareness on ongoing air pollution in the nation. स्वच्छ हावा, a social movement organized the cycle rally. The rally was organized to create consciousness and alertness to the local participants about the unending air pollution in the nation.
An online survey by Code for Nepal, #BreatheFreely, sheds light on the negative consequences of air pollution. Not surprisingly, most of the responses were from Kathmandu Valley.
Of the 789 answers collected earlier this year, a staggering 76% stated that their health has been affected by the air pollution. Most cited were breathing problems, chest pain, and eye infection. Air pollution is the major issue in Kathmandu valley and is continuously increasing year by year. Population index 2016 called the third most polluted city in the world is Kathmandu after Tetovo, Macedonia and Cairo.
The cycle rally is one of the four events organized by the movement, स्वच्छ हावा. In the previous weeks, public discussions, as well as demonstrations, have been arranged by the group. Illustrious members from various walks of life, as well as public health experts, have been participants.
Puskar Shah, international cyclist and Rajesh Hamal, veteran actor graced their presence in the march. As a part of the rally, participants watered the plants present in Bijuli Bazaar and Maitighar as a homage to the late martyrs.
The movement has also launched public discussions as well as illustrations in the previous weeks. Notable illustrious members and public health experts marked their presence in the rally. The core goal of the awareness program is to alarm the concerned authority regarding air pollution and public health.
Through their weekly events, #swachchhahawa movement contends to work in raising awareness concerning about the air pollution in the valley. The cycle rally, which commenced at Swayambhunath concluded at Babar Mahal.
Reference: Glocal Khabar