Delhi Pollution Crisis: A comprehensive survey has revealed the stark health impact of deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR. More than two-thirds of families report pollution-related ailments. The study, conducted by digital platform Local Circles, gathered responses from over 21,000 residents across the region.
Delhi-NCR suffers health problems amid Pollution
During Diwali celebrations, air quality monitors across several areas of the national capital recorded the maximum Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 999, indicating severe pollution levels. The survey data paints a concerning picture of public health, with 62% of families reporting cases of burning eyes, while 46% noted incidents of runny nose or congestion among family members.
More serious health impacts were also documented, with 31% of respondents reporting breathing difficulties or asthma symptoms—an equal percentage experienced headaches, while 23% reported anxiety or concentration problems. Sleep disturbances affected 15% of the surveyed population. Notably, 31% of respondents reported no pollution-related health issues.
What survey say about Delhi Pollution Crisis?
“With many already having cough and cold and some even suffering or already suffering from respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the severe or hazardous AQI levels post Diwali are likely to make things worse,” the survey report states.
The study also examined how residents are adapting to the crisis. Of the 10,630 respondents asked about their coping strategies for AQI levels currently ranging between 300-500, 15% plan to temporarily relocate from the city. Nine per cent intend to remain indoors while increasing their consumption of immunity-boosting foods and beverages. A larger segment, 23%, will combine indoor stays with air purifier usage.
What precautions are to be taken?
Other adaptive measures include wearing masks outdoors (15% of respondents) and combining mask usage with immunity-boosting dietary changes (15%). Despite the severe pollution levels, only about a quarter of respondents plan to use air purifiers. At the same time, a significant portion of the population expects to continue their regular activities with minimal protective measures.
The findings highlight the growing public health challenge posed by air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region and the varied approaches residents are taking to protect themselves during this environmental crisis.
