Delhi’s air quality remained stubbornly stuck in the ‘poor’ category on Thursday, with an air quality index (AQI) of 207. This persistent poor air quality is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against pollution in the national capital. According to the Centre’s Decision Support System for Air Quality Management in Delhi, vehicular emissions contribute a significant portion – approximately 19.2 per cent – to the city’s air pollution woes.
Adding fuel to the fire is the practice of stubble burning in neighboring states. Satellite data from Wednesday revealed a concerning number of fire incidents – 99 in Punjab, 14 in Haryana, 59 in Uttar Pradesh, and one in Delhi, reported news agency PTI. This practice releases a thick plume of smoke into the atmosphere, significantly worsening the air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas.
The situation is further compounded by the changing weather patterns. On Wednesday, relative humidity oscillated between 78 per cent and 57 per cent, with the minimum temperature settling at 19 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season’s average. These atmospheric conditions can trap pollutants, exacerbating the already dire air quality.
But what does breathing this poor air do to our health? The consequences are far-reaching and potentially serious. Exposure to polluted air can trigger a range of respiratory problems, including asthma, bronchitis, and lung infections. It can also contribute to cardiovascular diseases, weaken the immune system, and even increase the risk of cancer.
The persistent poor air quality in Delhi serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective pollution control measures. These measures must address all contributing factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and agricultural practices like stubble burning. It’s time to prioritize environmental protection and safeguard public health by taking decisive action to combat this persistent threat to Delhi’s air quality.