Air Pollution in Delhi: Why Delhi's Air Pollution Is More Dangerous Than You Think |

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Delhi's air pollution has made a comeback and is currently part of every discussion. From concerns to protests, nearly every Capital Region resident is trying to get involved in combating the growing threat of air pollution.
The toxicity of air pollution has also become a problem among neighbors. Bhutan will have to endure less pollution if pollution levels in India are low, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay said on Monday, asserting that India's emergence as an advanced nation will also ensure cleaner air in his country.

Delhi Air quality According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air fell into the 'very poor' category on Tuesday, with an air quality index (AQI) of 385 recorded at around 8am. A thick layer of fog was seen in areas like Anand Vihar, Kalkaji, Nehru Place and Akshardham Temple as air quality in the city continued to deteriorate. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI in the “Severe” category can affect healthy people and seriously affect those with pre-existing medical conditions, while “Poor” and “Very Poor” can cause breathing difficulties and illness with prolonged exposure.

Delhi residents battled respiratory illnesses earlier this year

“This time, respiratory illnesses are occurring earlier in Delhi than in November. We see air pollution increasing earlier this year than November. For this reason, the number of patients suffering from respiratory diseases is increasing by 10 to 15 percent.” Diseases”, Dr. Rajesh Chawla, a senior advisor for Respiratory diseases at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital told news agency ANI.

“Air pollution is like slow poison. It affects developing children and older people. Action should be taken at the personal, state and national levels. If you want to prevent the effects of air pollution, using an N95 face mask is essential,” he said.

Dedicated OPD services opened for air pollution patients

As patients are increasingly experiencing symptoms like watery eyes and cough, Ram Manohar Lohia City Hospital has started offering dedicated OPD services for pollution patients. “Right now, we are seeing patients with respiratory, eye and skin ailments, which are of great concern in our OPDs. We have now seen increased number of chest OPD patients and with the vision of our Medical Superintendent, Dr. Ajay Shukla, we have started this.” “We visit this environmental disease clinic every Monday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.,” said Dr. Ajit Jindal from the respiratory department told the media. “Today patients came with coughing, sneezing, runny nose, itchy throat and watery eyes and some patients with burning sensation on the skin. These are the main symptoms that patients come with,” he explained.

How serious is air pollution in Delhi?

“Air pollution in Delhi poses a serious health risk, especially in winter when vehicle exhaust, industrial pollutants and stubble burning contribute to high smog levels. Reduced life expectancy, heart disease and respiratory problems are among the main problems associated with it.” Due to the city's sometimes “hazardous” air quality, children, the elderly and people with pre-existing medical problems are particularly at risk of long-term exposure.” said Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital Gurugram.

“Air pollution is bad for your physical and emotional well-being. In terms of health, it leads to a weakened immune system, heart problems and respiratory diseases. Long-term exposure has been linked to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and cognitive decline. Nitrogen.” Carbon dioxide and PM2.5 are two examples of pollutants that can worsen stress, trigger mood problems and even alter brain function, increasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases,” he adds.
Air pollution poses significant health risks and affects millions of people worldwide. Inhaling pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and ozone can cause both short-term and long-term health problems.

In the short term, air pollution can trigger respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis and chronic cough. People with underlying health conditions such as asthma or cardiovascular disease are particularly vulnerable to worsening symptoms when exposed to polluted air. Even in healthy people, severe air pollution can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, as well as difficulty breathing.

Long-term exposure to polluted air has more serious consequences. It can lead to chronic respiratory disease, lung cancer and heart disease. Studies have also shown a link between prolonged exposure and reduced lung function and premature death, particularly in children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Additionally, air pollution has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, cognitive decline and pregnancy complications, including low birth weight.

Are we doing enough to protect ourselves from pollution?

According to Dr. Pratibha Dogra, senior consultant, pulmonology and sleep medicine at Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram, said: “Even though people are aware of the risks of air pollution, not enough is being done to stay safe. Long-term solutions such as reducing emissions, promoting renewable energy and tightening laws are lagging behind, although some people are using masks and air purifiers. Additionally, there aren't enough people using public transportation, planting trees, and driving less to have a lasting impact.

The doctor highlighted the impact of environmental pollution on children and senior citizens. “- Children are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of air pollution as they have weaker lungs, respiratory infections and worsening heart problems. Restricting outdoor activities during times of high air pollution, using air purifiers indoors, ensuring children wear masks outdoors, and encouraging a nutrient-rich diet to boost the immune system are all ways to protect them, explains Dr. Dogra.

Pollution hotspots in Delhi

In Delhi, 13 hotspots have been identified as pollution hotspots: Narela, Bawana, Mundka, Wazirpur, Rohini, RK Puram, Okhla, Jahangirpuri, Anand Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, Mayapuri, Dwarka. According to the Ministry of Environment, the hotspots were identified based on the annual average value of PM10 above μg/m3 and PM2.5 above 100 μg/m3. This is based on data from nearby (within 2 km) continuous air quality monitoring stations established by the DPCC.

To control air pollution, the Environment Ministry plans to implement several measures such as identifying plastic and garbage dumps and removing them, identifying and repairing pavements and potholes, decongesting congested traffic points, mechanized sweeping of roads and water sprinkling of roads and streets Night patrols to control violations related to biomass burning, construction and demolition waste dumping, etc.

To protect yourself during times of high air pollution, stay indoors as much as possible, especially during times of peak air pollution. Keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor exposure and use air purifiers if available. If you have to go outside, wear a mask, e.g. B. an N95 to filter out harmful particles. Avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous activities that increase breathing rate. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins and consider using a saline nasal spray to clear the respiratory tract. Stay informed by monitoring air quality and taking appropriate precautions.
(With contributions from agencies)