Kathmadnu, March 16 -- Nepal's air quality, which remained toxic for the past several weeks, has improved significantly in recent days, thanks to pre-monsoon activities. Rainfall and winds now provide much-needed relief from hazardous conditions.

On Sunday afternoon, Kathmandu Valley witnessed brief rainfall and strong winds, which helped reduce air pollution levels.

According to IQAir, a Swiss group that collects air-quality data from around the world, the air quality in most places of the Valley was moderate-PM2.5 levels below 100 micrograms per cubic metre.

PM2.5 refers to particulate matter (solid or liquid droplets) in the air less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter. These are the most dangerous pollutants that can get past the nose...