Dhulikhel Municipality Declared Nepal’s First ‘Healthy City’ By WHO
Dhulikhel Municipality in Kavrepalanchok district has been named Nepal’s first ‘Healthy City’ and the second healthiest city in Asia by the World Health Organization (WHO). The designation follows a rigorous monitoring process by the WHO, which began in 2021. Dhulikhel achieved a score of 65.48 points based on various health indicators.
The WHO evaluated Dhulikhel on several factors, including citizens’ access to healthcare, their involvement in health policy-making, political commitment to health, nutrition, child health, and innovative health initiatives. Notable programs include efforts towards a tuberculosis-free community and nutrition-friendly initiatives.
Dhulikhel’s successful bid for this title was supported by numerous health programs and policies aimed at improving public health. As a result of this achievement, the municipality has been awarded USD 5,000 to further its health initiatives.
This accolade comes in the context of broader concerns about air quality in Nepal, which has recently been reported as the third most polluted country globally based on satellite-derived particulate matter 2.5 data.
Despite these challenges, Dhulikhel’s recognition highlights its commitment to improving health standards and setting a benchmark for other cities in the region.