Delhi's air has turned more poisonous this season, with former AIIMS director Dr. Randeep Guleria declaring it a public health emergency. People with weak lungs are advised to leave the city if possible. Experts predict worsening pollution due to slow winds and dropping temperatures.
Delhi wraps itself in smog every winter, but this season the situation is more severe. Former AIIMS director and lung specialist Dr. Randeep Guleria has warned of a public health emergency in the capital, damaging lungs, hearts, and brains. He stated, 'If your lungs are weak, leave Delhi immediately.' Those unable to leave should wear masks, use home air filters, and follow doctor's advice.
According to Dr. Guleria, hospitals are seeing a 15 to 20 percent rise in cases of breathing difficulties, coughs, and chronic lung diseases like asthma and COPD, appearing 4 to 6 days after pollution spikes. Even young and healthy individuals are reporting coughs, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. PM2.5 particles enter the blood, causing inflammation, raising blood pressure and sugar levels. He noted that air pollution caused over 8 million deaths worldwide in 2021, more than COVID, yet it is not mentioned on death certificates.
It is also affecting mental health, with symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, and lack of concentration. Children are most at risk, breathing faster and playing outdoors, which stunts their lung development.
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology forecasts Delhi's AQI reaching the 'severe' category (400+) by Tuesday due to slow winds and falling temperatures. On Sunday, the AQI was 366, in the 'very poor' range. The minimum temperature was 16.8 degrees Celsius and maximum 30.7 degrees Celsius. Punjab reported nearly 500 stubble burning cases on Saturday, the highest this season after delayed harvests due to rains and floods. Restrictions on BS-III and BS-IV engine commercial vehicles took effect on Saturday.