New Delhi Chokes in Toxic Haze as Air Quality Remains “Severe”

New Delhi Chokes in Toxic Haze as Air Quality Remains "Severe"

VoM News Desk | November 5, 2023 | 12:53 PM IST | Climate & Environment, Delhi | Follow on Google News

New Delhi Chokes in Toxic Haze as Air Quality Remains “Severe”

New Delhi Chokes in Toxic Haze as Air Quality Remains “Severe”

New Delhi, along with Kolkata and Mumbai, is currently among the world’s most polluted cities, according to data from Swiss Group IQAir. The city’s air quality remained in the “severe category,” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 483 at 7.30 am, making it the top-ranked city on the real-time list. Lahore followed with an AQI of 371. Kolkata and Mumbai were also in the list of the top five worst-hit cities by air pollution, with AQIs of 206 and 162, respectively.

Factors Contributing to the Crisis

Officials attribute the crisis to a combination of factors, including low temperatures, a lack of wind, and the burning of crop stubble in neighboring states. These factors have led to a spike in air pollutants, resulting in a thick layer of toxic haze enveloping New Delhi.

Health Impact and Safety Concerns

The deteriorating air quality has had significant health implications for residents of New Delhi. Many have reported irritation in their eyes, itchy throats, and breathing difficulties as the air quality index reached alarming levels. An AQI of 0-50 is considered good, while a range of 400-500 is harmful to both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions.

The concentration of fine particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, reached 523 mg per cubic meter, which is 104.6 times higher than the permissible World Health Organization guidelines. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 particles has been linked to chronic heart and respiratory conditions.

Crisis Plan Activation

To address the crisis, a comprehensive plan has been activated in New Delhi. This plan includes halting construction activities, promoting the use of public transport, and encouraging work from home when feasible.

Cricket World Cup Impact

The ongoing Cricket World Cup being hosted by India has prompted organizers to ban fireworks at matches in Mumbai and Delhi to prevent further exacerbation of hazardous air pollution levels. Bangladesh canceled a training session in Delhi due to the haze, and the air quality is expected to remain a concern for the upcoming matches.

The alarming air pollution levels in the national capital are raising concerns about public health, safety, and environmental sustainability. Addressing air quality challenges in urban areas remains a significant priority for the government and stakeholders.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.