“Delhi’s Air Quality Index turns toxic: AQI hits 471 on November 19, a threat to life and health”

“Delhi’s Air Quality Index turns toxic: AQI hits 471 on November 19, a threat to life and health”

Pollution havoc in Delhi: AQI at 471 on November 19, having terrible effects on health and life

Delhi’s Air Quality Index : Delhi, once known as “Delhi”, is today in the grip of pollution. Today, November 19, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 471, which falls in the “severe” category. This level is extremely dangerous, which is badly affecting the health and life of the city dwellers.

What does Air Quality Index AQI 471 mean?

AQI 471 means that the amount of pollutants in the air is so high that it is dangerous for everyone, especially children, the elderly, and people already suffering from health problems. At this level, breathing in the air can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, headache, burning eyes, and other health problems.

Major reasons behind pollution:

Smoke from vehicles: The number of vehicles in Delhi is very high, and the smoke emitted from them is a major cause of pollution. Diesel vehicles, old vehicles, and poorly maintained vehicles emit particularly harmful smoke.

Industrial pollution: Delhi has many industries that release harmful gases and particles into the air. These industries manufacture a variety of products, including chemicals, metals, and energy.

Dust and soil: Construction work, road construction, and dusty roads are also a major cause of pollution in Delhi. Dust contains harmful particles that get mixed in the air and cause breathing problems.

Burning of stubble by farmers: Burning of stubble by farmers in Punjab and Haryana increases the pollution level in Delhi. The smoke emitted from burning stubble reaches Delhi and increases the amount of pollutants in the air.

Weather: Smoke accumulates in the air during the cold season, increasing the pollution level. Smoke does not disperse quickly in cold air, causing it to accumulate and increasing pollution levels.

Effects of pollution on life:

Health problems: Pollution can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, cancer, and other health problems. It is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and people already suffering from health problems.

Daily life: Pollution affects people’s daily lives. People avoid going out of their homes, which affects their activities and work.

Education: Schools have to be closed, which affects children’s education.

Sports: Sports activities are also affected, as players may have health problems from breathing polluted air.

Tourism: Pollution also affects tourism, as people avoid visiting polluted cities.

Morale: Pollution also affects people’s morale. People feel anxious and frustrated, as they are worried about their health and life due to pollution.

An Air Quality Index AQI of 471, classified as “severe”, poses significant health risks to everyone, but especially to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions. The potential health risks are detailed below:

Respiratory problems:

Shortness of breath: Even healthy individuals may experience difficulty breathing.

Wheezing and coughing: These symptoms can worsen existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.

Lung irritation and inflammation: Long-term exposure can cause inflammation and damage to the lungs, increasing the risk of chronic respiratory diseases.

Cardiovascular problems:

Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Air pollution can put pressure on the heart, causing increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Heart attack and stroke: Long-term exposure to high levels of air pollution increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Other health risks:

Eye irritation and burning: Pollutants in the air can irritate the eyes, causing problems such as irritation, redness and watering.

Headaches and dizziness: Exposure to high levels of air pollution can cause headaches, dizziness and fatigue.

Skin problems: Air pollution can worsen existing skin conditions and cause new conditions.

Increased risk of cancer: Some air pollutants are carcinogenic, increasing the risk of lung cancer and other types of cancer.

Cognitive impairment: Studies have shown that air pollution can negatively affect cognitive function, especially in children.

Vulnerable groups:

Children: Children are particularly sensitive to air pollution because their lungs are still developing.

The elderly: Older people are more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution because they have weaker immune systems.
People with pre-existing health conditions: Individuals with asthma, heart disease, lung disease, and other health conditions are at a higher risk of experiencing serious health problems from air pollution.

Important note:

These health risks aren’t just theoretical. An AQI of 471 indicates extremely hazardous air quality, and immediate action is needed to protect your health.

Tips:

Stay indoors as much as possible: Limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.

Use an air purifier: If you have an air purifier, run it on high to filter out pollutants.

Wear a mask: When you must go outside, wear a high-quality mask that filters out fine particles.

Avoid strenuous activities: Limit physical activity outdoors, especially if you have respiratory or cardiovascular problems.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids can help flush pollutants out of your body.

Monitor your health: Pay attention to any changes in your health, and consult a doctor if you experience any symptoms.

Remember:

It’s important to protect your health during periods of high air pollution. Take the necessary precautions and stay informed about the air quality in your area.

Wear a mask: To avoid pollution

!! Stay Safe !!