Rain provides little relief to smog-enveloped Delhi

Even though the quality of the air in Delhi, which has been reeling under smoggy conditions, got a brief respite  with the circulation of cool winds and brief showers, the air is still a health hazard for citizens of Delhi claim observers . 

“ Even though today (Thursday) there are better conditions witnessed, chances are smog-like conditions re- emerging on November 7 after which there would be another round of brief spell of showers or flow of cool winds expected around November 9 or 10 after which the smog may appear due to effects of Diwali” mentioned R Vijyan of  the Indian meteorological department.

Delhi has been reeling under intense smog and poor air quality for the past few days which has also affected the health of the citizens.  “For the past two weeks the number of patients having air quality related health issues or the like  has increased by 25 per cent,” claims Dr Vivek Nangia, Director Pulmonology at a private hospital. Dr Nangia also distinguished between the symptoms of flu and air related problem  where he explained  that a patient who experiences redness of eyes, headaches, watering of nose, dizziness, should also have fever in case of a flu.

He also warned that even if children from 1-15 years and adults of over 60 years are asked to maintain caution in these conditions, the middle age group is also equally vulnerable.

“ Being a low pressure zone bad air quality due to burning of paddy remnants in neighbouring states, coupled with high vehicular  traffic and laxity by authorities in allowing trucks to enter the city would affect its citizens,” mentioned Polosh Mukherjee Research associate, CSE.

Based on data by SAFAR on the air quality of Delhi PM2.5 (µgm-3) standards on Thursday, Friday, Saturday would be 243, 250, 235 respectively. PM2.5 (µgm-3) standards which directly affects lungs, 60 is considered to be normal while  260 is considered severe.