According to a report by The Times of India, Delhi’s air remained in a “very poor” quality on Friday, with the air quality index of 330.
One of the major contributors of air pollution that are degenerating the capital’s air quality is secondary particles. These particles are produced by a reaction between particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. These are directly released into the air through stubble burning and the burning of fossil fuels by the usage of vehicles. Prolonged exposure to the deteriorating air quality has led to an increase in patients with breathing difficulties in hospitals and the city.
“With winter conditions also setting in, dust and particulate matter from the vehicular pollution and smoke creates choking smog. This dangerous mix of pollutants increases the risk of lung cancer; much like smoking cigarette toxins does,” said Dr Arunesh Kumar, Head of Chest Institute and Respiratory Medicine.
Even after measures like odd-even by the Delhi Government, Delhiites are yet to experience any respite. With the issuance of a Public Health Emergency last week, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) urged the residents to wear masks while venturing out.
The report further said that to some relief, the air quality is not expected to deteriorate further. This relaxation will take place due to the strong winds in the region as predicted by the Centre-Run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).
“Wind speed will be good for the next two days and even though the direction is north-westerly, it will disperse the pollutants. From November 11, however, the wind speed might decrease,” said the report.
