Delhi's toxic air has once again taken center stage. According to a new report by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), air pollution directly caused 17,188 deaths in the capital in 2023. This equates to one out of every seven deaths being linked to pollution.
The report highlights that particulate matter (PM2.5), which comprises tiny pollutants in the air, remains the largest factor in deaths across Delhi. According to the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), approximately 15% of all deaths in Delhi in 2023 were attributed solely to pollution.
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Source: aajtak
The report further reveals that Delhi's poor air quality has become more dangerous than traditional health risks like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Source: aajtak
Other Leading Causes of Death in Delhi, 2023
High Blood Pressure: 14,874 deaths (12.5%)
High Blood Sugar (Diabetes): 10,653 deaths (9%)
High Cholesterol: 7,267 deaths (6%)
Obesity (High BMI): 6,698 deaths (5.6%)
Source: aajtak
Experts warn that Delhi's air is becoming increasingly toxic each year. PM2.5 levels remain significantly above the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). This rise in pollution has led to an increase in respiratory diseases, heart disorders, strokes, and childhood asthma cases.
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CREA’s report states that pollution has evolved into a public health crisis, not just an environmental issue.
Source: aajtak
Experts suggest that to shield Delhi from this peril, the government needs robust, science-based policies and decisive actions, which include controlling industrial emissions, enforcing strict regulations on vehicular smoke, and expanding green zones.
The report warns that if immediate measures are not implemented, the toll of pollution-related deaths in Delhi could become even more dire in the years to come.
