Delhi Struggles With Smog And Rising Pneumonia Cases

For the last several days, Delhi has been shrouded in a dense smog, significantly deteriorating the city's air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has alarmingly stayed within the 'severe-plus' range, posing a substantial threat not only to individuals in good health but also aggravating conditions for those with existing health issues. This severe air pollution level has triggered a spike in respiratory conditions among the city's residents, with hospitals reporting an upsurge in related admissions.

The pollution crisis in Delhi has been particularly harsh, leading to a noticeable increase in cases of "walking pneumonia." This condition, less severe than traditional pneumonia, does not typically require bed rest or hospitalization, thus earning its nickname. Caused by the Mycoplasma pneumonia bacteria, walking pneumonia presents with flu-like symptoms such as fever, a sore throat, and a cough, alongside mild breathing difficulties that persist longer than the usual acute respiratory infection. Despite its mildness, in crowded places like schools and colleges, it can spread quickly when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing respiratory droplets into the air.

Delhi's Perennial Struggle with Pollution

In response to the plummeting air quality, marked by the AQI reaching the 'severe-plus' category earlier this week, authorities have been compelled to take stringent measures. These include transitioning schools to online learning and implementing strict pollution controls. The AQI scale, which classifies air quality based on different levels of pollution, indicates that anything above 450 falls into the 'severe-plus' category. This scale aims to provide a clear understanding of the health implications of outdoor air, ranging from 'good' to 'severe-plus.'

The Root of the Problem

The persistent issue of air pollution in Delhi and its surrounding areas, home to approximately 70 million people, often places the city at the top of global air pollution rankings during the winter. The cold air during this season traps dust, emissions, and smoke, including that from the illegal burning of stubble by farmers in adjacent states like Punjab and Haryana. This practice, aimed at clearing fields for new planting, significantly contributes to the worsening air quality experienced in the national capital region.

Despite a slight improvement, Delhi woke to another day of polluted air, with a thin haze and smog blanketing the city. The AQI, while showing a marginal betterment, remains in the "very poor" category, with particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) identified as the primary pollutant. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlights this ongoing struggle, reflecting the need for more effective pollution management strategies.