Delhi Chokes From Severe Air Pollution Levels!

Introduction

Delhi can’t breathe! The thick grey haze that has enveloped the National Capital Territory has left the entire country worried. Recently, Delhi’s Air Quality Index has been fluctuating between 350 and 450 in many areas for the last few weeks. Delhi and surrounding cities are experiencing severe air pollution. This can adversely affect people’s health. Delhi is in the middle of a climate emergency. 

What has triggered it? And how can the residents of Delhi save themselves from pollution? Read on to find out.

Delhi is gasping, and so are its people. For weeks, a heavy grey cloud has taken over the city, pushing the AQI to a shocking 350–450 in several areas. Eyes burn, throats itch, and the air smells of smoke. It’s not just pollution anymore. Delhi is standing in the middle of a climate emergency.

But here’s the real question:

What suddenly pushed the city into this hazardous haze? And more importantly, what can residents actually do to protect themselves right now? The answers are deeper (and more urgent) than most people think. Let’s uncover what’s really happening and how Delhi can fight back.

What Contributes to Delhi’s Pollution?

Delhi’s ‘hazard’ levels of pollution are due to the interplay of multiple factors:

• Burning of stubble (the stalks of the crops after they are harvested) in agricultural fields. This happens extensively in Delhi’s neighbouring states, Punjab and Haryana. The wind carries the thick smoke from burning stubble towards Delhi, worsening its air quality.
• Exhausts from various industries.
• Emissions from Delhi’s large fleet of vehicles.
• Burning of wood (using wood as fuel for cooking).

Seasonal Influence: These pollutants are then trapped over the city due to low wind speeds and cold temperatures, which makes the air heavier and exacerbates the problem, especially during the winter season.

The risk of death significantly increases with long-term exposure to polluted air. For instance, people susceptible to heart disease are at higher risk.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Why Should We Be Worried?

Delhi’s pollution levels are indeed a health emergency. Every year during November and December, Delhi’s PM2.5 (pollutant particles with a radius of 2.5 micrometres) level exceeds 300 or sometimes 400 – the normal range of PM2.5 level is 0-50. This puts Delhi in the ‘severe’ category for air pollution.

These particles directly enter our bloodstream through the lungs, causing severe damage that affects the body in multiple ways.

Air pollution is also linked to lung damage and limited lung function. Air pollution can also have an inflammatory effect on the heart; it can elevate blood pressure and aggravate pre-existing conditions of the heart.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Effects of Severe Air Pollution on the Body

• Respiratory System: Causes airway inflammation leading to coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and worsening of asthma/COPD.
• Eyes: Triggers irritation, burning, redness, and excess watering due to exposure to particulate matter.
• Heart and Cardiovascular System: Increases inflammation and blood pressure, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Blood Sugar and Metabolic Health: Air pollution-induced inflammation can worsen insulin resistance and disturb blood sugar regulation.
• Brain and Nervous System: May reduce oxygen supply and increase oxidative stress, leading to headaches, fatigue, brain fog, and sleep disturbances.
• Skin: Damages the skin barrier, causing dryness, irritation, acne flare-ups, and premature ageing.
• Immune System: Disturbs the immune system, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections and allergies.
• Reproductive Health: Poor air quality may affect fertility and can pose risks during pregnancy, including low birth weight.
• Children’s Health: May affect breathing, cognitive health, and increase the risk of chronic respiratory issues.

According to the World Health Organisation, the rising levels of pollution are responsible for nearly one-third of the cases of stroke, heart disorders and lung cancers in Delhi.

Both short and long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to a wide range of diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, trachea, bronchus and lung cancers, aggravated asthma and lower respiratory infections. Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable because their bodies, organs and immune systems are still developing.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj , M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

How Can People Protect Themselves?

To minimise exposure and health risks during severe pollution, the following measures can help:

• Wear a high-quality mask (N95/N99) whenever stepping outdoors to filter harmful particulate matter.
• Limit outdoor activities; go out only when absolutely necessary.
• Work from home whenever possible to reduce outdoor exposure.
• Avoid outdoor exercise, especially morning and evening walks, when pollution levels are highest.
• Encourage children to play indoors until the air quality improves.
• Use an air purifier at home, especially in bedrooms and living spaces.
• Keep doors and windows closed during peak pollution hours; open them briefly for ventilation and sunlight when AQI improves.
• Prefer wet mopping over dry sweeping to reduce dust circulation indoors.
• Maintain good hydration to help the body flush out toxins and keep airways moist.
• Consider dietary antioxidants (as advised by a doctor) to help reduce inflammation caused by pollution.
• Follow a nutrient-rich diet including fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 sources to support immunity.
• Use lubricating eye drops if recommended by a doctor to ease irritation.
• Monitor AQI regularly using apps and plan outdoor tasks accordingly.
• Avoid burning incense, Candles, or Smoking Indoors as they worsen indoor air quality.
• Consult a Doctor if you experience persistent or severe symptoms such as:
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Eye redness, burning, or itching
  • Persistent runny nose, cough, or congestion
  • Skin irritation or rashes

Air pollution in Delhi and the surrounding areas poses a risk to everyone living there. Adopt the precautionary measures outlined above to protect yourself from the harmful effects of pollution. Consult a doctor when needed. People with pre-existing respiratory illnesses (asthma, COPD, pneumonia, etc), pregnant women, and newborns need extra care and protection from pollutants. 

Also Read: Smog: What Is It, Causes and Ways To Protect Yourself From It

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