Delhi’s air pollution has reached critical levels again, with experts warning that the toxic air poses a greater threat to public health than the Covid-19 pandemic.
On Wednesday, the city’s air quality exceeded the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit by 35 times, leaving residents struggling with breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and throat discomfort. Authorities have advised people, especially children and the elderly, to remain indoors as much as possible, while doctors recommend wearing masks as a protective measure.
However, Frank Hammes, CEO of air technology company IQAir, emphasized that such steps are merely short-term solutions. “Alarming air pollution levels are a public health pandemic,” he told the BBC. Hammes highlighted how toxic air affects everything from life expectancy to cognitive abilities. “This will have a much bigger impact on public health than Covid-19,” he warned.
Seasonal Pollution Crisis
Every winter, Delhi and its neighboring regions suffer from severe pollution due to a combination of stagnant air, vehicle emissions, and the seasonal burning of crop stubble and firewood. On Wednesday morning, IQAir’s Swiss air quality index recorded pollution levels in parts of Delhi surpassing 550, far above the “hazardous” benchmark of 300. By contrast, London recorded an AQI of just 26 on the same day.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) tracks levels of PM 2.5 particles, considered the most dangerous pollutant due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Hammes explained, “PM 2.5 causes breathing issues, asthma attacks, and severe heart and lung problems, sending many to emergency rooms.”
Government Action
In response to the alarming situation, the Delhi government reinstated strict pollution control measures on Tuesday, less than two weeks after the Supreme Court had permitted their relaxation. Under Stage Four of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), several emergency measures have been implemented, including a shift to hybrid learning modes in most schools, a ban on construction and demolition activities, and restrictions on the entry of heavy vehicles, except those carrying essential goods.
Despite these measures, residents continue to express their despair over the persistent pollution crisis. Manish Adhikari, a Delhi resident, described surviving winters in the city as increasingly difficult due to rising pollution levels. Another resident, Bhagat Singh, voiced his frustration, saying, “Pollution has become an incurable disease for Delhi. There seems to be no solution.”
As Delhi grapples with its annual air quality crisis, experts and citizens alike are calling for long-term strategies to tackle what has become an ongoing public health emergency.