A dense layer of toxic smog enveloped the capital of India on Friday as smoke from firecrackers used in the Diwali celebrations pushed air pollution levels into the hazardous category.
The air quality index in New Delhi has dropped into the severe category, according to SAFAR, India’s leading environmental monitoring agency. In several locations, the levels of hazardous particulate matter have surged to seven times higher than the safety limits recommended by the World Health Organisation.
Since 2017, authorities in the capital have prohibited the use and sale of traditional firecrackers, urging residents to opt for eco-friendly alternatives or light displays instead; however, this regulation is frequently disregarded.
The air quality crisis intensifies particularly during winter, as the burning of agricultural waste in adjacent states coincides with lower temperatures that trap toxic smoke. This smoke then drifts into New Delhi, exacerbating pollution levels and worsening the public health emergency.
Additionally, emissions from industries lacking pollution controls and reliance on coal for the majority of the country’s electricity contribute significantly to the deteriorating air quality in urban areas.
Reports state that Manoj Kumar, a resident of New Delhi who regularly runs near the capital’s iconic India Gate stated, “We may not realise it now, but later we will face lung problems.”
With a population exceeding 33 million New Delhi consistently ranks among the most polluted cities globally.
Various studies suggest that over a million Indians succumb each year to diseases linked to air pollution. Tiny particulate matter in polluted air can penetrate deeply into the lungs, resulting in severe health complications.
Frances Ibiefo
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