Delhi Pollution News | Study Reveals Shocking Number Of Deaths In India Due To Toxic Air

Summary

A groundbreaking report reveals the devastating impact of air pollution in India, linking 3.8 million deaths to PM 2.5 exposure between 2009 and 2019, with the WHO estimate climbing to 16.6 million. The discrepancy between India's more lenient air quality standards and those of the WHO highlights a critical issue. Experts stress the urgent need for tighter pollution controls and recognize the rising health burden, including respiratory diseases, cancers, and heart problems. Despite mounting evidence, there is political complacency and denial, delaying necessary reforms. The conversation emphasizes that masks are not a long-term solution, with systemic changes required to address indoor and outdoor pollution.

Takeaways

• 😀 3.8 million deaths in India from PM 2.5 exposure between 2009 and 2019, a conservative estimate based on Indian air quality standards.
• 😀 Under World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, the number of deaths from PM 2.5 exposure rises dramatically to 16.6 million over the same period.
• 😀 PM 2.5 particles are harmful to human health as they are small enough to enter the lungs and cause long-term damage, including lung diseases and cancers.
• 😀 A shocking 81.9% of India’s population lives in areas where air quality exceeds the Indian standard for PM 2.5, while nearly 100% is exposed to levels unacceptable by WHO standards.
• 😀 An increase of 10 micrograms per cubic meter in PM 2.5 correlates with an 8.6% higher annual mortality rate, highlighting the severe health risks.
• 😀 There is an urgent need to align India’s air quality standards with WHO recommendations, as the current standards are far more lenient and potentially harmful.
• 😀 The Indian Ministry of Health has repeatedly denied the connection between air pollution and premature deaths, hindering efforts for stricter policies.
• 😀 The economic cost of air pollution is significant, with approximately $95 billion lost annually due to health impacts, which constitutes about 3% of India’s GDP.
• 😀 In cities like Delhi, children may lose up to 12 years of life expectancy due to poor air quality, illustrating the long-term consequences of pollution on future generations.
• 😀 Air quality index (AQI) standards have not been updated in India, despite public demand and pressure from citizens, leading to a denial of the severity of the pollution crisis.
• 😀 Masks are not a long-term solution to air pollution, as indoor pollution can be even more harmful. Wearing a mask outdoors may offer some protection, but it is not a practical or effective fix.

Q & A

What is PM 2.5 and why is it harmful?

PM 2.5 refers to fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller. These particles are harmful because they can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing serious health issues such as lung disease, cancer, and various respiratory ailments.

How many deaths in India between 2009 and 2019 were attributed to PM 2.5 exposure?

According to the Landet study, 3.8 million deaths in India between 2009 and 2019 were linked to PM 2.5 exposure, based on Indian air quality standards. However, when using the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, this number rises to 16.6 million.

What is the discrepancy between India's air quality standards and the World Health Organization's standards?

India's air quality standards allow a PM 2.5 concentration of up to 40 micrograms per cubic meter, which is eight times higher than the WHO's recommended limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter.

How much of India's population is exposed to harmful levels of PM 2.5?

81.9% of India's population lives in areas where PM 2.5 levels exceed India's own air quality standards of 40 micrograms per cubic meter. Under WHO guidelines, nearly 100% of the population is exposed to unacceptable levels of pollution.

What impact does an increase of 10 micrograms per cubic meter in PM 2.5 have on mortality rates?

An increase of 10 micrograms per cubic meter in PM 2.5 concentration is associated with an 8.6% higher annual mortality rate.

What is the connection between air pollution and rising cases of respiratory diseases?

The increased pollution levels are linked to a rise in diseases such as cancer, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), and heart ailments. The pollution aggravates these conditions, leading to higher death rates, particularly in cities like Delhi.

What is the political response to air pollution in India?

Despite mounting evidence, there has been a lack of political will to address air pollution in India. The Ministry of Health has repeatedly denied the connection between air pollution and deaths, which has led to delayed actions and policy changes.

Why are citizens in India struggling with air pollution, despite awareness?

Citizens face a dual challenge: while many are aware of the dangers of air pollution, there is a significant gap between public awareness and government action. Measures such as updating air quality standards and implementing stricter pollution controls have been delayed, contributing to worsening air quality.

How effective are masks in protecting people from air pollution?

Masks, especially simple three-ply masks, are not very effective against air pollution, especially long-term. While they may offer some protection outdoors in polluted areas, they are not a comprehensive solution. Indoor pollution, which is often more severe, also contributes to health risks.

What steps need to be taken to improve India's air quality?

There needs to be an urgent alignment between Indian air quality standards and those recommended by the World Health Organization. This includes lowering permissible PM 2.5 levels, updating air quality index standards, and implementing stronger pollution control measures. Public awareness and political will are crucial in addressing this growing crisis.