KMC Urges Residents to Refrain from Burning Plastic Waste in Open Spaces

The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has issued a public appeal urging residents not to burn plastic or other waste materials in open areas, citing serious health and environmental risks.

According to Sarita Rai, Chief of the KMC’s Environment Management Department, the smoke generated from burning plastic contains harmful pollutants that pose significant health hazards—particularly to children, senior citizens, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

“The open burning of plastic waste releases toxic fumes that contribute to air pollution and can aggravate existing health issues,” said Rai, calling on the public to make use of the garbage collection services provided by the municipality instead of resorting to open burning.

The department has also called on industrial and commercial entities to strictly adhere to the recently implemented Pollution Control Standards, 2081 BS, in order to help curb environmental degradation and promote public well-being.

KMC’s appeal comes amid growing concerns about deteriorating air quality in the Valley and increasing incidents of unmanaged waste disposal.