Delhi is currently facing a severe air quality crisis in the wake of Diwali celebrations. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently in the ‘very poor’ category, reaching 355, health professionals are issuing urgent warnings about the significant risks posed to public health.
Expert Insights on Delhi’s Deteriorating Air Quality
According to Dr. GC Khilnani, Chairman of PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, pollution is linked to a notable increase in severe health conditions. A recent study indicates that pollution can cause a 22–25% surge in heart attacks, asthma, and bronchitis.
Dr. Nikhil Modi, a Respiratory Medicine Specialist at Apollo Hospitals, explains that the onset of winter, combined with cooler air that traps pollutants, exacerbates the problem. “As winter approaches, cooler air traps pollutants near the ground,” he stated. He noted that individuals with allergies and lung issues are experiencing increased coughing, watery eyes, and breathing difficulties, which have become more prevalent after Diwali.
Dr. Dhiren Gupta, a Paediatric Pulmonologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, highlighted the heightened vulnerability of specific groups: “Children, pregnant women, and asthma patients are particularly susceptible.” He added that even healthy individuals can develop pollution-induced asthma, and vehicular pollution remains a major contributing factor.
The Public’s Experience and Broader Impact
The impact of the pollution is palpable among residents. Ashish Ranjan, a local runner, shared his struggle, saying, “I cannot breathe properly” during his morning runs. Other residents emphasize the need for individual responsibility in mitigating pollution, suggesting that adherence to guidelines for green crackers could help improve air quality.
A report from the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) reveals a stark reality: Delhi residents are losing an average of 8.2 years of their life expectancy due to high PM2.5 levels. Achieving the World Health Organization’s standard of 5 µg/m³ could significantly reduce this loss. In 2023, Delhi’s annual PM2.5 levels were recorded at 88.4 µg/m³, substantially higher than the national average of 41 µg/m³.
Fire Services Respond to Fewer Emergencies
Despite the worsening air quality, Delhi’s fire services reported a decrease in emergencies compared to the previous year. On Diwali day, they responded to 269 calls, down from 318 in 2024. However, a significant incident in Janakpuri required the rescue of seven people, with two firefighters sustaining minor injuries.
Current data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) shows Delhi’s overall AQI at 359, with areas like Bawana (432), Jahangirpuri (405), Ashok Vihar, and Wazirpur (both 408) falling into the ‘Severe’ category. Prolonged exposure to such air quality poses a serious threat of respiratory illnesses.