Toxic air impacts every family in Delhi-NCR, survey highlights alarming health crisis

A recent survey revealed that every family in the Delhi-NCR region is grappling with pollution-related health issues, underscoring the severe impact of deteriorating air quality in the area.

Conducted by LocalCircles, an online community platform, the survey found that 75% of families reported at least one member suffering from a sore throat or persistent cough. Additionally, 58% of families noted headaches caused by the hazardous pollution levels, while 50% reported breathing difficulties or asthma among their members.

The study included responses from over 21,000 residents across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad, with 63% of respondents being men and 37% women.

The survey highlighted the alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR, which recently soared past 400, with PM2.5 levels reaching an astonishing 1500 in some parts of the capital. Experts compare these conditions to living in a "gas chamber," reflecting the dire situation faced by residents.

When asked how families were managing the hazardous pollution levels, 27% reported using air purifiers, a significant increase from 18% just a month earlier. This indicates a growing reliance on technology among those who can afford it. Meanwhile, 23% of respondents admitted they were not taking any protective measures due to limited options or resources. Others reported increasing their intake of immunity-boosting foods and drinks as a coping mechanism.

The survey also showed a rise in the percentage of families with at least one ill member, increasing from 69% on November 1 to 75% by November 19. This sharp uptick highlights the worsening health crisis caused by sustained exposure to toxic air.