More than 200,000 cases of acute respiratory illnesses were recorded in six state-run hospitals in Delhi between 2022 and 2024 as the Indian capital struggled with rising pollution levels, the federal government has said.
The government stated in parliament that over 30,000 patients with respiratory illnesses were hospitalized during this period.
Toxic air has been a recurring issue in Delhi, especially during winters, leading to serious health risks.
Currently, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI)—which measures pollutants including PM2.5—has been reported to be over 20 times the limit recommended by the World Health Organization in recent weeks.
The pollution crisis is attributed to a combination of industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, dropping temperatures, low wind speeds, and seasonal burning of crop stubble in neighboring states.
Data reveals that Delhi's six major hospitals reported 67,054 acute respiratory cases in 2022, 69,293 in 2023, and 68,411 in 2024.
The analysis indicates a correlation between rising pollution levels and increased emergency room visits, though it cannot conclusively establish a causal relationship, as clarified by the government.
Throughout the past decade, Delhi's average AQI has consistently surpassed the severe 400 mark, substantially impacting both public health and the well-being of its residents.
On Wednesday morning, Delhi's AQI stood at around 380, signaling ongoing danger for inhabitants, particularly children who have been notably affected.
The Delhi high court is expected to address a petition on Wednesday demanding immediate measures to tackle hazardous air pollution, a concern echoed by India's top court in recent years.
