Delhi is grappling with a significant rise in pollution levels, which have reached hazardous thresholds. A leading expert has cautioned that the detrimental effects of India’s polluted air on public health could surpass those of the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Wednesday, air quality levels soared to 35 times above the safe limit established by the World Health Organisation (WHO). This alarming situation prompted numerous residents to voice their concerns, reporting issues such as breathing difficulties and irritation in their eyes and throats.
Officials advise the public, particularly vulnerable groups such as children and older people, to remain indoors whenever possible. Meanwhile, medical professionals are advocating for the use of masks.
Frank Hammes, the global chief executive of IQAir air technology firm, cautions that this approach is temporary, emphasizing that significantly more action is required.
“The rising levels of air pollution represent a significant public health crisis,” he stated in an interview with the BBC, detailing the detrimental effects of toxic air on various aspects of health, including mortality rates and cognitive function.
“The implications for public health are poised to be significantly greater than those experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Each winter, Delhi and its neighboring states grapple with severe pollution due to stagnant wind conditions, vehicle emissions, and the incineration of agricultural residues and firewood.
On Wednesday morning, pollution levels in some regions of Delhi soared past the 550 mark, as reported by IQAir, a Swiss air quality index, significantly surpassing the “hazardous” threshold of 300.
On Wednesday morning, London recorded a level of 26.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a critical gauge for assessing the concentration of delicate particulate matter in the atmosphere, mainly PM 2.5. Mr. Hammes emphasizes that this pollutant is regarded as “the most dangerous” and the “only determinant” for calculating pollution levels.
“It leads to breathing difficulties, triggers asthma attacks, and results in heart and lung problems that prompt individuals to seek emergency care,” he stated.
On Tuesday, the Delhi government reinstated stringent pollution control measures, which lasted just under two weeks following the approval from the country’s highest court to relax such regulations.
By the restrictions outlined in stage four of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap), many schools have transitioned to a hybrid learning model. Additionally, all construction and demolition activities have been halted, and the entry of lorries and heavy vehicles, except those transporting essential goods, has been banned.
Dhiraj Yadav, a resident, expressed to news agency ANI the growing challenges of enduring winter in Delhi amid the persistent rise in pollution.
Another resident, Bhagat Singh, voiced his frustration.
Pollution has emerged as a pervasive issue, particularly in Delhi. “There is no solution to it,” he stated.
