On Tuesday morning, the air quality index (AQI) in India's capital reached a staggering 485, indicating hazardous levels of pollution. While this figure was a slight relief compared to the previous day’s alarming 1,785 AQI, the microscopic particles infiltrating the air still posed serious health risks. Vikram Singh, a 58-year-old auto-rickshaw driver, shared the discomfort of polluted air, affecting his vision and stamina. For him, earnings have diminished from $8.30 to $6, reflecting the economic strain of poor air quality.
Each year, as temperatures in northern India fall, the city faces this recurring issue of oppressive smog. Political leaders typically respond with emergency protocols, but substantive action to alleviate the public health crisis remains elusive. This week, in light of the densities of haze, Delhi’s Chief Minister Atishi may have been invoking panic by declaring a “medical emergency,” which particularly threatens the vulnerable populations—children and the elderly. The Supreme Court criticized the national government’s delayed responses and mandated immediate action, including the suspension of construction and restrictions on vehicular traffic. Schools were directed to close indefinitely, echoing the stringent measures seen during the Covid-19 pandemic.
For many in Delhi’s middle class, this latest wave of pollution feels like a painful reminder of life during lockdowns, where working from home became the norm and children were kept indoors. However, countless residents cannot afford the privilege of isolation. Debu Jyoti Dey, a finance director in the nonprofit sector, wrapped a handkerchief beneath his eyes while commuting between his work and the subway. Despite the choking air, he expressed limited relief in being able to retreat indoors, even if temporarily. This situation continues to spark frustration and fear among Delhi’s population, searching for solutions as the annual air pollution nightmare unfolds once again.
Each year, as temperatures in northern India fall, the city faces this recurring issue of oppressive smog. Political leaders typically respond with emergency protocols, but substantive action to alleviate the public health crisis remains elusive. This week, in light of the densities of haze, Delhi’s Chief Minister Atishi may have been invoking panic by declaring a “medical emergency,” which particularly threatens the vulnerable populations—children and the elderly. The Supreme Court criticized the national government’s delayed responses and mandated immediate action, including the suspension of construction and restrictions on vehicular traffic. Schools were directed to close indefinitely, echoing the stringent measures seen during the Covid-19 pandemic.
For many in Delhi’s middle class, this latest wave of pollution feels like a painful reminder of life during lockdowns, where working from home became the norm and children were kept indoors. However, countless residents cannot afford the privilege of isolation. Debu Jyoti Dey, a finance director in the nonprofit sector, wrapped a handkerchief beneath his eyes while commuting between his work and the subway. Despite the choking air, he expressed limited relief in being able to retreat indoors, even if temporarily. This situation continues to spark frustration and fear among Delhi’s population, searching for solutions as the annual air pollution nightmare unfolds once again.
