Post Diwali, Delhi Air Is Nothing Short Of Toxic

NEW DELHI– Even as the national capital woke up to toxic air on October 20 morning with the Air Quality Index (AQI) falling to the “very poor” category, health experts warned of an increase in respiratory diseases, stroke, and heart attack, among others.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi recorded an AQI of 335 at 8 am on Diwali morning after people burst crackers on the eve of the festival of lights, causing severe noise pollution and blanketing Delhi-NCR in smoke.

The CPCB’s forecast for the coming days indicates a similar trend, with the air quality expected to deteriorate further into the “severe” category on October 21 and October 22.

“Increased exposure to air pollution has both acute short-term and long-term impacts on health. Short-term impacts include exacerbation of asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), shortness of breath, and itching in the eyes. Long-term exposure leads to cardio-respiratory diseases, stroke, heart attack, dementia, and mental health issues,” an AIIMS doctor said.

The expert noted that children and the elderly more than 60 years, and those with pre-existing illnesses are more vulnerable to the impact of air pollution.

The air quality in the national capital is expected to worsen further as people have been granted permission to burst green crackers for a limited time by the Supreme Court.

The doctor also suggested avoiding early morning outdoor activities, using an N95 mask when outdoors, and taking fruits and vegetables (up to five servings a day), especially citrus fruits rich in antioxidants, to prevent the impact of air pollution on the human body.  (IANS)