Air pollution levels in Delhi have remained at dangerously high levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) registering in the “severe” category for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday, November 6. According to the latest data from SAFAR-India, the AQI was recorded at 360 in the early morning hours, signaling a hazardous environment for residents.
Specific Areas Affected by Poor Air Quality
Several regions across the national capital have been grappling with alarmingly high pollution levels. Key areas in Delhi have recorded AQI readings well above the threshold for “severe” air quality. Notably, the AQI in Mundka was reported at 418, NSIT Dwarka at 449, and Wazirpur at 421. These areas, along with many others, are experiencing intense pollution levels that are far beyond the acceptable standards for healthy living.
On Tuesday, November 5, a total of eight monitoring stations in the city recorded “severe” air quality, including Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Mundka, New Moti Nagar, Jahangirpuri, Wazirpur, and Vivek Vihar.
Other areas with particularly bad air quality include:
Ashok Vihar (AQI 398), Jahangirpuri (AQI 397), Alipur (AQI 372), Burari Crossing (AQI 370), Nehru Nagar (AQI 381), New Moti Bagh (AQI 382), Patparganj (AQI 383), Punjabi Bagh (AQI 389), RK Puram (AQI 373), Rohini (AQI 393), Sonia Vihar (AQI 382), Vivek Vihar (AQI 383).
In addition, some other major locations with concerning pollution levels include:
Dwarka Sector 8 (AQI 356), Chandni Chowk (AQI 312), Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range (AQI 369), IGI Airport (AQI 349), Narela (AQI 378).
Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)
The AQI is an important tool for understanding the level of pollution in the air. It measures the concentration of several harmful pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone. A high AQI signifies that the concentration of these harmful pollutants is elevated, creating an unhealthy environment, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions.
An AQI value above 300 is classified as “severe,” which indicates that the air is not safe for any outdoor activity, and prolonged exposure can lead to significant health problems.
Major Causes of Air Pollution in DelhiThe poor air quality in Delhi is a result of a combination of factors that worsen as the winter season sets in. Key contributors to this pollution crisis include:
Vehicle Emissions: A major source of air pollution, particularly from the millions of vehicles on Delhi’s roads, releasing large amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.Industrial Emissions: Pollution from factories and power plants continues to be a significant contributor to poor air quality.
Construction Dust: Unregulated construction activities, particularly in densely populated urban areas, contribute significantly to airborne particulate matter.
Crop Burning: During the winter months, neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana burn large quantities of crop residue, releasing large volumes of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere.
Weather Conditions: Low wind speeds and temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating the pollution problem. During the winter, the colder air near the ground is unable to rise and disperse the pollutants, creating a blanket of smog that lingers in the atmosphere.
These factors combine to create a toxic mix of pollutants that severely affect the air quality in the capital city, especially during the colder months.
The Impact of Toxic Smog on HealthInhaling toxic air in a polluted city like Delhi can be extremely detrimental to our health, particularly our lungs. The thick smog that envelops the city contains harmful substances, such as ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause significant damage to respiratory health.
These pollutants can infiltrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and irritation of the airways. Over time, prolonged exposure to high levels of air pollution can lead to chronic respiratory diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a condition that progressively reduces lung function.
Health Symptoms and Risks of Poor Air Quality
Short-term exposure to severe air pollution can result in a range of immediate health symptoms, including:
1.Coughing
2. Sore or scratchy throat
3. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
4. Headaches
5. Fatigue
6. Eye irritation
For individuals with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD, the effects can be far more severe. The toxic air can trigger asthma attacks, cause increased dependence on inhalers, and worsen chronic respiratory conditions. In some cases, prolonged exposure to such high levels of pollution can lead to serious, long-term health issues, including heart disease, strokes, and even premature death.
Taking Precautions During High Pollution Days
Given the current pollution levels in Delhi, health experts recommend that residents take the following precautions to minimize the risk of exposure:
Limit outdoor activities: Especially for children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions.
Use air purifiers: Indoors, air purifiers can help reduce the concentration of pollutants.Wear a mask: N95 or similar protective masks can help filter out harmful particulate matter when venturing outdoors.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps clear mucus from the respiratory system.
Consult a doctor: If you experience any symptoms like persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing, seek medical attention promptly.
As Delhi continues to battle its severe air pollution crisis, residents are urged to stay informed about AQI levels and take necessary precautions to protect their health. Government authorities and environmental organizations must continue to explore long-term solutions to address the root causes of pollution, such as improving vehicle emissions standards, reducing industrial pollution, and addressing crop-burning practices. Until then, the people of Delhi must remain vigilant and proactive to reduce the harmful impact of toxic air.
