Health & Environment: Delhi's Air Quality Turns 'Very Poor' Post-Diwali, Health Alerts Issued

The festive cheer of Diwali has been overshadowed by a familiar and hazardous environmental crisis, as the national capital's air quality deteriorated severely today. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the 'Very Poor' zone, with several monitoring stations reporting levels above 325, causing serious health concerns for millions.

This annual post-Diwali phenomenon, compounded by seasonal factors like stubble burning in neighboring states and adverse weather conditions, has once again turned Delhi into one of the most polluted cities in the world.

A Public Health Emergency

The plummeting air quality is not just an environmental issue but a full-blown public health emergency. Doctors across the city are reporting a surge in patients complaining of respiratory distress.

"The spike in pollution levels is extremely dangerous, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma and heart disease. The microscopic pollutants, known as PM 2.5, can enter our bloodstream and cause long-term damage," warned Dr. Anjali Sharma, a leading pulmonologist at a city hospital.

Immediate Impact and Precautions for the Public

The hazardous air has an immediate impact on daily life and health. Residents are experiencing:

Burning sensations in the eyes and throat.

Difficulty in breathing and aggravated asthma attacks.

Increased risk of stroke and heart attack.

To protect themselves, citizens are advised to:

1.  Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid going for morning walks or engaging in strenuous exercise outside.

2.  Use N95 Masks: Properly wear N95 or N99 masks when stepping out. Cloth masks are ineffective against fine pollutants.

3.  Use Air Purifiers: Keep air purifiers switched on indoors, especially in bedrooms.

4.  Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help the body flush out toxins.

The government has issued health advisories and is considering implementing the next stages of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which could include further restrictions on vehicle use and construction activities. For the public, navigating this toxic air has become the most pressing and immediate challenge.