Delhi AQI Remains 'Very Poor': Smog Can Severely Damage Lungs, Experts Warn Ahead of Chatt Argya

Delhi AQI Today: Are your lungs at risk? Experts warn breathing toxic smog-filled air can rupture arteries, damage lungs completely. Read on to know what is Delhi's AQI today to stay safe.

Delhi AQI Today: Air pollution in many areas in Delhi remained in the "severe" category for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday. According to data from SAFAR-India, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 360 at 6am today.

Mundka's AQI was measured at 418, NSIT Dwarka at 449, and Wazirpur at 421. Yesterday, on November 5, air pollution levels reached the "severe" category at eight stations across the city: Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Mundka, New Moti Nagar, Jahangirpuri, Wazirpur, and Vivek Vihar.

Ashok Vihar recorded an AQI of 398, and Jahangirpuri had an AQI of 397, both falling under the 'very poor' category.

Other areas with 'very poor' air quality include Alipur (AQI 372), Burari Crossing (AQI 370), Nehru Nagar (AQI 381), New Moti Bagh (AQI 382), Patparganj (AQI 383), Punjabi Bagh (AQI 389), RK Puram (AQI 373), Rohini (AQI 393), Sonia Vihar (AQI 382), and Vivek Vihar (AQI 383).

In other regions, air quality was also concerning, with Dwarka Sector 8 recording an AQI of 356, Chandni Chowk at 312, Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range at 369, IGI Airport at 349, and Narela at 378.

What is the AQI?

The Air Quality Index, or AQI, is a vital tool that helps us understand the air quality in our surroundings. It tracks harmful pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and ozone. High AQI numbers indicate worse air quality, which can trigger serious health problems, impacting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with existing health issues. Recently, Delhi's AQI has climbed into the 'severe' range, alarming health officials and environmental advocates alike.

Causes of Poor Air Quality in Delhi

Multiple factors are driving the decline in Delhi's air quality, especially during the winter. Key culprits are vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, dust from construction sites, and the burning of crop waste in neighboring states. Weather conditions, including temperature inversions and low wind speeds, worsen the situation by trapping these pollutants near the ground. Consequently, the air becomes heavy with harmful particles, posing serious risks to our respiratory health.

How Does Inhaling Toxic Smog Air Damage Lungs?

Breathing in toxic smog can be incredibly harmful to our health, especially our lungs. Smog is a nasty mix of smoke, fog, and a variety of chemical pollutants that form under particular weather conditions. Key elements include ground-level ozone, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These harmful substances come from various sources, such as car emissions, industrial waste, and fossil fuel combustion. When we breathe in this toxic mix, it can infiltrate our lungs, causing irritation and a host of other health problems.

What Happens When You Inhale Toxic Air?

Inhaling this toxic smog can greatly hinder our lung function. As these pollutants enter our respiratory system, they can cause inflammation in the airways. This inflammation restricts airflow, making it harder to breathe. Moreover, particulate matter can lead to mucus buildup in the lungs, further blocking airflow. Over time, this can result in chronic conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which significantly reduces the lungs' ability to function.

You may experience these symptoms:

Coughing

A scratchy throat, and

Difficulty breathing

Headaches

Fatigue, and

Eye irritation

For those who already have respiratory problems like asthma, smog can cause severe asthma attacks and increase reliance on inhalers. Being aware of these symptoms is essential so that prompt medical attention can be sought to avert further health risks.

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