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Delhi sees surge in respiratory illnesses linked to toxic air
Over 200,000 cases of acute respiratory illnesses were documented in six state-run hospitals in Delhi between 2022 and 2024, as the Indian capital grapples with escalating air pollution, the federal government revealed in parliament.
Hospitalizations rise as pollution levels soar
The government stated that more than 30,000 individuals required hospitalization due to respiratory conditions during this period. Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI), which tracks pollutants like PM2.5-fine particles that penetrate deep into the lungs-has consistently exceeded the World Health Organization's recommended limits by over 20 times in recent weeks.
Multiple factors drive Delhi's air crisis
The persistent toxic air in Delhi and its suburbs, particularly during winter, stems from a combination of sources. Industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, falling temperatures, stagnant winds, and the seasonal burning of crop residue in neighboring states all contribute to the hazardous conditions.
Annual respiratory cases remain high
Data from Delhi's six largest hospitals show a steady influx of patients with acute respiratory issues: 67,054 cases in 2022, 69,293 in 2023, and 68,411 in 2024. While government analysis indicates a correlation between rising pollution levels and increased emergency room visits, officials emphasized that the study does not establish a definitive causal link.
Air quality reaches dangerous levels
Delhi's average AQI has frequently surpassed the "severe" threshold of 400 over the past decade, particularly during winter months. Such levels pose significant health risks, even to healthy individuals, and exacerbate conditions for those with pre-existing illnesses. On Wednesday morning, the city's AQI stood at approximately 380, according to the government-backed Safar app.
Children among hardest hit as courts weigh action
Recent reports highlight a growing number of children falling ill due to the toxic air in Delhi and its suburbs. The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear a petition on Wednesday demanding immediate measures to address the hazardous pollution. India's Supreme Court has also repeatedly expressed concerns about air quality in the capital and surrounding regions in recent years.
