No sooner has Diwali festivity ended than New Delhi has choked into an endless maze of pollution. Since a week, the inhabitants in Delhi have been inhaling particulate matter (PM) - both 2.5 micrometers and 10 micrometers - composed of dust, dirt, smoke, chemicals, etc., a deadly combination which enters the blood stream through one's lungs and causes cancer.
The central pollution monitoring agency data revealed that concentrations of Particulate Matter or PM 10 (coarser pollutants) was over 1,600 micrograms per cubic metre compared to a safe level of 100 at around 2 am in Delhi's Anand Vihar. At Mathura Road, the Air Quality Index or AQI clocked at 488, almost 10 times over the standard limit. Lodi Road, the heart of Delhi with decent greenery showed AQI of 500.
Moreover, the drop in temperature with low wind speed has buoyed up the pollution level. High speed wind might have dispersed the pollutants in the air.
It’s definitely a case of serious concern. It can never be made foolproof but there are a few ways to combat the consequences.
Here are eight best ways to stay safe from pollution.