While Delhi-NCR may not be in a public health emergy with schools being shut anymore, the air outside is still hazardous. According to today’s Air Quality Index reading of 357.
The rest of the cities also recorded ‘unhealthy’ numbers, with Kolkata and Mumbai almost touching a PM 2.5 measure of 200. Just as a reminder, the WHO recommended PM 2.5 limit is 50.
Here’s what the numbers mean. The World Health Organisation identifies pollution levels are ranging from:
- 0 - 50: Good. Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
- 51-100: Satisfactory. Air quality is acceptable; may be a moderate health concern for sensitive people.
- 101-200: Moderate. Sensitive groups (with lung, heart diseases) may experience health issues.
- 201-300: Poor. Everyone may begin to experience health issues like respiratory problems.
- 301-400: Very Poor. Health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is likely to be affected.
- 401-500: Severe. Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health issues.
If you wish to check the air quality index of your city, click on this link: https://www.thequint.com/quintlab/widgets/air-quality-index/
(The air in Delhi is visibly toxic - how has the hazardous air #pollution impacted you? Write down your #PollutionKaSolution and send it to us at FIT@thequint.com. )
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