Mitigating Health and Safety Risks Amid Nepal’s Civil Unrest and Environmental Strain

The Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) experienced major setbacks due to the ongoing political unrest and the resulting curfews, leading to power supply disruptions in Kathmandu and other parts of the country. The lack of a stable power supply poses a serious risk to hospital operations and healthcare services.

With over half of its pharmaceuticals imported from India, Nepal’s dependency on cross-border logistics leaves its supply chain vulnerable. Domestic pharmaceutical production satisfies less than half of the demand. Thus far, the protests have not specifically targeted medical supply warehouses or pharmacies. However, the imposed curfews and roadblocks in various cities have delayed the distribution of supplies.

Beyond infrastructure, environmental health risks were compounded during the crisis. In areas most heavily affected by protests, smoke from burning buildings and vehicles dramatically degraded air quality. On the afternoon of Sept. 9, authorities issued an alert stating that the Air Quality Index (AQI) was over 110, posing serious risks to those with respiratory issues like asthma, allergies, or heart disease.  

Although the political unrest in Nepal was a catalyst for the recent supply chain and environmental deterioration, the strategies for staying safe during such crises are broadly applicable. It is critical to stay calm and informed about your environment. Proactive awareness and preparation are key to navigating any environment affected by unrest or environmental hazards. 

Understanding the primary health hazards during civil unrest is essential for appropriate precautionary measures:

Smoke Exposure (Wildfires / Structure Fires)

Smoke is a mix of gases and fine particles that irritates the eyes, nose, and lungs, and worsens asthma, COPD, or heart disease. Even healthy people may develop coughing, sore throat, headaches, and shortness of breath during high exposure. 

Key Concern: Prolonged exposure raises the risk of severe respiratory distress in vulnerable individuals. 

Riot Control Agents (Tear Gas, Pepper Spray, etc.)

Riot control agents act within seconds, causing eye tearing, burning skin, coughing, nausea, and anxiety, typically lasting 15–30 minutes after exposure ends. Rarely, they may trigger severe asthma attacks, skin burns, or lasting eye injury, particularly in those with pre-existing lung disease. 

Key Concern: Repeated or heavy exposure in confined spaces poses higher long-term health risks. 

Follow these targeted protective measures based on your health status and vulnerability:

General Population/Travelers/Expat Advice  

• Limit outdoor activities when AQI reaches “Unhealthy” levels.
• Carry N95 or equivalent masks for protection in high-smoke or polluted conditions.
• Stay indoors in well-ventilated spaces, using air filtration when possible. 
   

Additional Considerations for Individuals with Underlying Pulmonary Conditions

• Strongly reconsider travel during periods of hazardous AQI or anticipated wildfire/riot events.
• If travel is unavoidable, keep medications (inhalers, rescue meds) always accessible and arrange medical support in advance.
• Avoid areas where tear gas or smoke exposure is likely; use respirators and eye protection if exposure risk exists.
• Stay in accommodations with air filtration and avoid outdoor exertion. 

Crisis24 provides global expertise and real-time intelligence to help you navigate any threat, at any time. Our medical and security specialists stand ready to guide your preparedness, response, and recovery efforts.