Doctors raise alarm over health risks related to Delhi air pollution
World
IQAir's reading for New Delhi was at least 239, placing it in the "very unhealthy" category, with some areas registering a figure of at least 400, which falls under the "hazardous" category
NEW DELHI (Reuters) – Worsening air quality in India's capital New Delhi is causing a spike in health issues, doctors said on Tuesday as concerns over smoggy air in the city continue to mount.
As of 0739 GMT on Wednesday, IQAir's reading for New Delhi was at least 239, placing it in the "very unhealthy" category, with some areas in the capital region registering a figure of at least 400, which falls under the "hazardous" category.
More people are being admitted to hospitals with respiratory and other pollution-related health problems, while some conditions have worsened in severity during this period, doctors in New Delhi said.
Delhi and surrounding districts are often covered in smog during winter, as cold, dense air traps emissions from vehicles, construction sites and crop burning, pushing pollution levels to among the highest in the world.
Livelihoods are disrupted every year in parts of South Asia by the smog, whose impact can cut life expectancy by more than five years per person, a study showed in 2023.
