Delhi’s Air Pollution Hits Hazardous Levels, Health Crisis Looms

Delhi’s air pollution has surged to hazardous levels once again, with experts warning that its impact on public health could rival or even surpass the devastation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The capital city’s air quality has reached 35 times the safe limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO). This staggering rise in pollution has triggered widespread health complaints, including breathing difficulties and severe irritation in the eyes and throat.

Frank Hammes, CEO of air technology firm IQAir, described the situation as a “public health pandemic,” emphasizing that toxic air has long-term consequences that surpass Covid-19 in severity. “From mortality rates to cognitive development, air pollution affects everything,” he noted.

On December 17, parts of Delhi recorded pollution levels exceeding 550 on the AQI scale, far above the “hazardous” threshold of 300. In stark contrast, London registered an AQI reading of just 26 on the same day. The primary pollutant responsible is PM 2.5, ultrafine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to severe respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

PM 2.5 exposure has been linked to asthma attacks, lung and heart problems, and a rise in emergency hospital visits. Experts caution that these particles are among the deadliest pollutants, making Delhi’s air a grave public health concern.

Recurring Winter Pollution Crisis

Every winter, Delhi and its neighboring states grapple with severe air pollution due to a combination of factors, including:

Low wind speeds: Stagnant air traps pollutants near the ground.

Vehicle emissions: A significant contributor to particulate matter.

Crop residue burning: Farmers in neighboring states burn stubble, adding to the                                       toxic haze.

Firewood burning: Increased use of traditional heating methods during colder                                    months exacerbates pollution levels.

Government Steps Up Measures

In response to the escalating crisis, the Delhi government has reimposed strict pollution control measures under Stage Four of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These measures include:

Hybrid schooling: Most schools have shifted to a combination of online and in-person classes.

Construction ban: All construction and demolition activities have been prohibited.

Vehicle restrictions: Heavy vehicles, except those carrying essential goods, are banned from entering the city.

The reintroduction of these measures comes just weeks after the Supreme Court permitted the easing of some restrictions.

With air pollution levels persistently high, health experts fear long-term consequences for Delhi’s residents. Prolonged exposure to polluted air increases the risk of chronic illnesses, reduces life expectancy, and hampers cognitive development in children.

Frank Hammes’s stark warning highlights the urgency of the situation: “Unlike Covid-19, the damage caused by air pollution is insidious and enduring. It silently erodes public health over time, leaving a lasting impact on future generations.”

Addressing Delhi’s air pollution crisis requires a multifaceted approach involving stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, investment in cleaner energy sources, and regional cooperation to curb stubble burning. Without decisive action, the health and well-being of millions remain at grave risk.

For now, the city continues to struggle under a choking blanket of smog, with residents relying on masks and air purifiers for minimal relief. But experts stress that these are temporary solutions to a problem that demands systemic change.