India's air quality is currently very poor, with many major cities experiencing unhealthy to hazardous conditions (AQI > 150). This is due to a combination of factors, including industrial and vehicular emissions, construction dust, and biomass burning for cooking and heating. As a result, residents are at high risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and air pollution is a major cause of premature death.
India's air quality is currently very poor, with many major cities experiencing unhealthy to hazardous conditions
(AQI > 150). This is due to a combination of factors, including industrial and vehicular emissions, construction dust, and biomass burning for cooking and heating. As a result, residents are at high risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and air pollution is a major cause of premature death.
Current air quality status
Overall: -
Air quality is extremely poor across many parts of the country, with some cities registering hazardous levels (AQI > 300).
Major cities: -
Many large urban centers, including Delhi and others in states like Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra, are currently experiencing "unhealthy" to "very unhealthy" levels of pollution.
Health risks:-
Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, wear masks, and use indoor air purifiers.
Long-term trend: -
India has had some of the most polluted cities in the world for years, with average PM2.5 levels significantly higher than WHO guidelines.
Causes of poor air quality
Industrial and vehicular emissions:- These are major contributors to particulate matter pollution.
Construction dust: -
Dust and debris from construction sites are significant sources of pollution.
Biomass burning: -
The use of wood and dung for cooking and heating, particularly in rural areas, contributes significantly to air pollution.
Other factors:-
Thermal power plants, crop burning, and waste burning also contribute to the problem.
Impact of air pollution
Health: -
Air pollution causes numerous health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart problems, and even cancer. It is a leading cause of premature death in India.
Economic:-
The economic impact is substantial, with billions of dollars lost each year due to health-related costs and reduced productivity.
How to check air quality
An AQI value of 50 or below is considered good, while a value over 300 is hazardous.
MJF Lion ER YK Sharma
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