A report published in Lancet Planetary Health highlights dangerous air quality in 10 major Indian cities. It revealed that about 33,000 deaths annually are linked to air pollution levels higher than World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The study analyzed data from Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Shimla and Varanasi between 2008 and 2019.
Dr Bhargav Krishna, Fellow of the Sustainable Futures Collaborative and lead author of the study, emphasized the widespread nature of the issue. He said, the results of this first multi-city study of its kind show us that reducing air pollution is a nationwide challenge. Our analyses show that even in cities previously considered less polluted such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Chennai, air pollution has a significant impact on mortality."
While large-scale policy changes are crucial for long-term recovery, individuals are not helpless in the face of this crisis. According to experts, here are some practical, individual-level strategies that residents of these polluted urban areas can implement to protect their health.
Monitor air quality and adjust outdoor activities
Dr. Rahul K. Jalan, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist at Apollo Hospitals, Ahmedabad, advocated the use of renewable energy. He emphasized the dangers of indoor air pollution. Indoor air pollution caused by incense sticks, incense and construction material in the house and kitchen, which is harming the people living in the house, should be dealt with effectively.”
If you are living in highly urban and heavily trafficked areas, limit outdoor activities, says Dr Nana Kunjir, Consultant Pulmonologist and Intensivist, Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune. He advised to be aware of the air quality levels and adjust your outdoor routine accordingly.
For fitness enthusiasts, Kate Austin, Head Coach, Multifit suggested. Schedule your outdoor workout for early morning or late evening, when pollution levels are low." He also recommended choosing moderate activities like walking or light jogging instead of intense exercise on high pollution days.
Create a clean environment indoors
Dr Kunjir stressed the importance of indoor air quality and said, “Use air purifiers to reduce indoor pollution levels. Make sure the devices are equipped with HEPA filters so that fine particles can be captured effectively.”
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. You must consult the concerned expert before implementing any suggestion..