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Public apathy leads to a spike in AQI levels; leads to an emergency in Delhi-NCR

High Pollution Level: AQI levels reach new high post-Diwali in the national capital and neighbouring areas. Read on to know more.

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Written By: Arushi Bidhuri | Published : November 15, 2020 6:29 PM IST

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Is Delhi Air Pollution Affecting Your Eyes? Here Are Tips To Protect It From Smog

The air pollution in the national capital and neighbouring areas skyrocketed to dangerous levels after Diwali. Despite the ban imposed on the use of firecrackers, Delhi saw a staggering increase in pollution levels. It led to the hourly average of concentration of PM2.5, a deadly pollutant, to touch over 1000 micrograms per cubic meters after midnight, as reported by IANS.

High Pollution Levels In Delhi

The overall pollution in the city was eight times the safe limit and the air quality which was already in the 'severe' category on Saturday worsened. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the PM2.5 levels was 545. AQI values above 100 are generally thought of as harmful.

Union Health Ministry had warned that high pollution levels may lead to a spike in covid-19 cases. It could make people more susceptible to coronavirus infection by manifesting in the respiratory tract.

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Covid-19 Surge

Delhi is currently seeing a surge in covid-19 cases and deaths amid the third wave. In the wake of which the government imposed a ban on the sale and use of crackers until 30 November. However, the ban was flouted and led to a rise in pollution levels. As Delhi faces a double whammy of air pollution and covid-19, it is important to take precautions to combat air pollution.

Quick Recovery Possible

According to SAFAR's analysis, there were "three very positive developments which were expected to bring a quick recovery from the current pollution scenario."

The first factor is that winds accompanied by smoke have changed directions Stubble fire counts also decreased since Saturday, which means that pollution may decrease.

SAFAR team predicted that weather conditions may improve after Sunday afternoon, allowing the pollutants to disperse faster from Delhi's air.

Finally, scattered rainfall is expected, which might help improve AQI levels in the national city and neighbouring cities.

Tips To Protect Yourself From Unhealthy Air

  • Limit the time you spend outdoors. Avoid exercising outdoors when pollution levels are high.
  • Don't burning trash to avoid increasing pollution around you.
  • Avoid smoking and take measures to make your surroundings a tobacco-free place.
  • Practice yogic techniques like pranayama to improve immunity and boost lung capacity.
  • Eat a diet rich in inflammatory foods as they reduce the buildup of mucus and help build lung capacity. This will not only help you combat air pollution but decrease your chances of developing coronavirus.
  • Be extra cautious when you step outside your house to avoid the risk of developing health issues.
  • Since pollution this year is accompanied by a pandemic, it is best to follow all safety precautions to alleviate your chances of getting infected.
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Arushi Bidhuri

Arushi Bidhuri

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