Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, battles air pollution constantly, facing several exacerbating factors. Recently, pollution levels have dipped slightly, yet the persistent haze continues to raise health concerns, especially for the young and elderly.

Even amid severe conditions that pushed pollution to alarming levels, this dip has significantly affected daily life and public health.

Let’s dive into the situation and grasp its implications.

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Key Facts

• The Decline in Air Quality: Over the past week, air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorated due to dropping temperatures and stagnant winds, which are known to trap pollutants.
  • Factors Causing Pollution: The increase in pollution is also due to the burning of paddy straw in neighboring states and local sources like vehicle emissions and firecrackers.
• Slight Overnight Improvement: Pollution levels marginally improved overnight thanks to better wind speeds, although PM2.5 levels remain critically high.
  • PM2.5 Concentration: The amount of PM2.5 was more than 80 times the limit considered healthy by the WHO, posing serious health risks.
• Data from the CPCB: The Central Pollution Control Board data showed a spike in the AQI, putting Delhi in the “severe plus” category.
  • AQI Readings: There was a marginal improvement in AQI, from 468 to 413, but these levels are still considered dangerous.

Health Impacts & Solutions

• Health Impact Reports: A study by EPIC indicates that pollution in Delhi could reduce life expectancy by almost 12 years.
  • Effect on Daily Life: Hazardous pollution levels have forced residents to alter their daily routines, such as skipping outdoor activities.
• Risks to Vulnerable Groups: Children are at higher risk as they breathe more rapidly, thus inhaling more pollutants.
• Peak Pollution Period: Analysis by DPCC points out that the first half of November is the peak pollution time due to stubble burning.
  • Contribution of Stubble Burning: Stubble burning’s contribution to PM2.5 levels in Delhi saw a significant increase.
• Government Measures: The Commission for Air Quality Management is taking steps to reduce pollution, including halting certain polluting activities.

Delhi’s Air: Dire Reality

While Delhi has seen a marginal improvement in air quality, the situation remains dire, with the city enveloped in a toxic haze. The health implications for the city’s residents, especially the young and the elderly, are a major concern. Continued efforts are necessary to combat this annual crisis, requiring both immediate and long-term solutions. It is crucial for the city’s authorities to implement and adhere to strict measures to improve the air quality and ensure the health and well-being of its citizens.

Advice for Children During Air Pollution

1. Stay Indoors: When air quality is poor, children should stay indoors as much as possible to minimize exposure.
2. Use Air Purifiers: Utilizing air purifiers at home can help reduce indoor air pollution levels.
3. Wear Masks: If going outside is necessary, children should wear masks, preferably N95 respirators, which can filter out harmful particles.
4. Limit Physical Activity: Children should reduce outdoor physical activity when pollution levels are high, as this increases their breathing rate.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help the body naturally flush out contaminants.
6. Follow Air Quality Alerts: Pay attention to air quality forecasts and alerts to plan the day accordingly.
7. Seek Medical Advice: If a child experiences difficulty breathing or other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

How is Air Quality Measured?

• Air Quality Index (AQI): AQI is a tool used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become.
  • PM2.5 and PM10: These are particulate matters of different sizes, and their concentration in the air is a critical measure of air quality.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): NO2 levels indicate the amount of traffic-related pollution in the air.
  • Ozone (O3): Ground-level ozone levels are an indicator of air quality, particularly on hot sunny days.
  • Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): SO2 measurements are used to gauge the level of industrial pollution in the air.
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO): CO levels are monitored, especially in urban areas, to reflect combustion-related pollutants.

Key Metrics and What They Mean

• PM2.5 Levels: These should not exceed 25 micrograms per cubic meter in a 24-hour period according to WHO guidelines. Higher levels can lead to respiratory diseases.
• PM10 Levels: These should not exceed 50 micrograms per cubic meter in a 24-hour period. PM10 can penetrate into the lungs and cause health problems.
• NO2, O3, SO2, CO Levels: These are measured in parts per billion (ppb) or parts per million (ppm), and exceeding certain thresholds can lead to health warnings, respiratory issues, and aggravate heart conditions.

Final Thoughts

The story of Delhi’s air pollution reminds us how fragile our environment is and underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices. Pollution caused by human activities can devastate our health and well-being. We must educate our children about these issues and ways to protect themselves. At the same time, we need to work on long-term solutions to save the planet for future generations.

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• Air pollution increases in Delhi; govt closes schools till 5 November

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