Delhi's Air Quality: A Growing Health Concern

Delhi's air quality deteriorated in 2023, with increased PM10 and PM2.5 levels reported by the CPCB. Between January 1 and November 12, the capital experienced more 'poor' air quality days compared to last year. Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter poses significant health risks, according to experts.

Delhi's air quality has seen a significant decline in 2023, with a noticeable rise in PM10 and PM2.5 levels compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

From January 1 to November 12, Delhi witnessed 116 days with air quality indexed as 'poor', 'very poor', or 'severe'. This marks an increase from the 110 days recorded last year. Overall, 30 out of 36 monitoring stations in Delhi reported 'severe' air quality, highlighted by an AQI of 418 for the first time this season.

Health experts underline the risks associated with prolonged exposure to PM2.5, a fine particulate matter that can lead to genetic mutations and increase the risk of lung cancer. Vehicular emissions have been identified as a leading contributor to the worsening air quality in the capital.

(With inputs from agencies.)