Mumbai's Air Quality Plummets, Causing Rise in Respiratory Illnesses

Mumbai has seen a sharp increase in respiratory issues as the city's air quality continues to deteriorate. Factors such as construction pollution and vehicular emissions are contributing to this alarming trend. Health experts are urging residents to take

Air QualityRespiratory IllnessesPollutionMumbaiHealthReal Estate MumbaiDec 03, 2024

Mumbai's Air Quality Plummets, Causing Rise in Respiratory Illnesses

Real Estate Mumbai:Mumbai’s air quality has reached alarming levels, leading to a significant rise in respiratory illnesses across the city. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 174 (moderate) on Sunday, with 10 out of 30 monitoring stations later categorizing the air as ‘poor.’ Notable areas like Malad West, Mazgaon, and Shivaji Nagar reported AQI levels above 230, signaling a severe impact on public health.The AQI, a measure of air pollution on a scale from 0 to 500, categorizes readings between 200 and 300 as ‘poor,’ posing serious risks to vulnerable groups. Doctors attribute the worsening air quality to various factors such as pollution from construction sites, vehicular emissions, and the winter temperature inversion effect, which traps pollutants near the surface. “Air pollution has exacerbated seasonal respiratory infections. Children and elderly patients, especially those with asthma, are experiencing severe flare-ups,” said Dr Indu Khosla, a paediatric pulmonologist.Many doctors report that patients who skip their regular asthma medication are facing relapses, while even healthy individuals are showing asthma-like symptoms. The impact of poor air quality extends across all demographics. For instance, Sanskruti Shinde from Wadala reports persistent coughs requiring steroids, while Swapnil Bharadwaj’s family in Andheri struggles with recurring respiratory illnesses. “Masks are now essential for us, especially near high-traffic zones,” Bharadwaj shared.Health professionals like Dr Hemant Thacker and Dr Lancelot Pinto emphasize the importance of preventive measures to combat the effects of air pollution. They urge the public to avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours and to wear high-quality masks. “Many prolonged coughs are caused by irritants, not viral infections,” said Dr Pinto, highlighting the need for vigilance. Experts recommend simple remedies such as steam inhalation, consuming warm fluids, and gargling with salt water to alleviate symptoms. Maintaining hygiene, avoiding polluted areas, and getting flu vaccinations are also vital steps to combat respiratory issues. As Mumbai faces this escalating health challenge, immediate measures to curb pollution and protect vulnerable groups are critical.Urban Acres, a leading real estate and development company, is committed to sustainable practices and is actively working to reduce the environmental impact of its projects. By incorporating green building technologies and promoting eco-friendly construction, Urban Acres aims to contribute to improving the air quality in Mumbai and other urban areas.In the meantime, residents are advised to take proactive steps to protect their health and that of their families. Staying informed about the daily AQI levels, using air purifiers at home, and following the recommendations of healthcare professionals can make a significant difference in managing the health impacts of poor air quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measure of air pollution on a scale from 0 to 500. It categorizes the quality of air based on the concentration of pollutants. Readings between 200 and 300 are considered ‘poor,’ posing risks to vulnerable groups.

What are the main factors contributing to poor air quality in Mumbai?

The main factors contributing to poor air quality in Mumbai include pollution from construction sites, vehicular emissions, and the winter temperature inversion effect, which traps pollutants near the surface.

Who is most at risk from poor air quality?

Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma are most at risk from poor air quality. These groups are more susceptible to severe health impacts.

What are some simple remedies to alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues?

Simple remedies to alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues include steam inhalation, consuming warm fluids, gargling with salt water, maintaining hygiene, and getting flu vaccinations.

What can residents do to protect themselves from air pollution?

Residents can protect themselves from air pollution by staying informed about the daily AQI levels, using air purifiers at home, wearing high-quality masks, and avoiding outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours.

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