VOI World/ Desk
AIIMS specialists have warned that Delhi’s air pollution has entered “medical emergency” levels, as hospitals across the capital report a sharp rise in pollution-related illnesses among children, adults and the elderly. Experts say even measures like water spraying, masks and air purifiers offer only temporary or superficial relief.
Dr Anant Mohan, professor and head of pulmonary medicine at AIIMS, said people underestimate the true scale of the damage. He noted that pollution harms the heart, brain, mental health and the entire physiological system, with new evidence showing that prolonged exposure shortens life expectancy and increases mortality.
AIIMS doctors reported a 10-15 per cent increase in respiratory cases since Diwali, including pneumonia, bronchitis, wheezing, breathlessness, lung irritation and worsening conditions among patients who were previously stable. Hospitals also noted that OPD footfall for breathing problems is rising faster than usual.
Delhi recorded an air quality index of 374, placing it in the “very poor” category and causing reduced visibility on major roads. Experts stressed that the city is undergoing a public-health emergency and that short-term measures are not enough. Long-term strategies must replace reliance on water spraying or purifiers.
Dr Saurabh Mittal of AIIMS said Delhi’s annual winter air crisis is driven by a combination of weather patterns, crop-residue burning and human activity. Temperature inversion traps pollutants close to the ground, while stagnant winds slow their dispersal.
Calling the situation deeply concerning, doctors urged both emergency interventions and long-term policy reforms to protect the population, especially vulnerable groups like children, seniors and those with existing respiratory conditions.
