Post by : Maya Rahman

This week, Delhi and surrounding areas are grappling with a severe cold wave and an alarming spike in pollution levels. Residents expecting an improvement in air quality after last week's brief respite woke up to heavy fog, biting winds, and dangerously high pollution levels that complicated daily routines.

Morning reports indicate that air quality in most parts of Delhi has dropped significantly, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) ranging from 350 to 400, classified as "very poor". Areas such as Wazirpur and Bawana reported even worse conditions, entering the "severe" range. These conditions pose health risks, particularly for sensitive individuals, leading to discomfort and respiratory problems for many.

Delhi has faced persistent high pollution levels for nearly a month. Although there was an initial improvement over the past few days, the overall scenario remains alarming. This temporary lift in conditions allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP Stage 3 regulations on Wednesday. Unfortunately, even post-relaxation, the air quality still fell under the "very poor" category, underscoring the ongoing crisis.

Fresh data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Thursday pointed to escalating pollution levels once again, with Wazirpur hitting an AQI of 404 and Bawana at 403. Other districts showed troubling data as well, including Vivek Vihar (395), Jahangirpuri (392), Anand Vihar (386), Narela (386), Burari (368), Chandni Chowk (368), Sonia Vihar (355), and RK Puram (354). These figures illustrate a dire situation for residents breathing heavily polluted air, with conditions likely to worsen if the weather pattern persists.

A dense fog enveloped Delhi early in the morning and resurfaced during the evening, merging with pollution particles to form a dangerous layer of smog. Visibility on the roads was severely impaired, creating hazardous driving conditions and making it difficult for morning walkers and commuters to manage the thick haze. Such weather patterns diminish outdoor activities significantly.

In winter, cold air inhibits the upward movement of pollution, causing smog to settle closer to the ground. Residents often report experiencing severe coughing, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing under these conditions. Medical professionals warn that prolonged exposure to such polluted air can increase the risk of severe respiratory issues, chest congestion, and other related health complications.

Health experts alongside environmentalists caution against the hazards of extended exposure to polluted air, providing essential advice to minimize risk:

• Limit outdoor activities to essential trips only

• Use high-quality masks when going outside

• Keep windows sealed to prevent polluted air from intruding

• Utilize air purifiers at home when possible

• Stay hydrated and consume warm beverages

• Refrain from strenuous outdoor activities

These measures are particularly important for the vulnerable, including children, elderly citizens, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Residents of Delhi-NCR are increasingly apprehensive as the hazardous pollution shows no signs of alleviation. Parents are distressed over their children's school commutes under such circumstances. Senior citizens express difficulty in stepping out for necessary errands due to the combination of cold and pollution. Commuters report experiencing headaches and respiratory discomfort from prolonged exposure to the smog.

Although GRAP Stage 3 restrictions were recently eased, officials may reconsider reintroducing them due to rising pollution levels. Meteorologists assert that a return to better air quality will only be feasible with strong winds or rainfall to clear the air. Until such changes occur, residents must adhere strictly to safety protocols for health protection.

#Global News