Over the past few decades, air pollution and climate change have emerged as pressing global concerns, posing significant threats to public health and mortality. The alarming rise in severe air pollution, particularly in India, highlights the urgent need for action. Major cities like New Delhi consistently rank among the world’s most polluted urban areas due to rapid urbanization, transportation emissions, and industrial activities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution—both ambient and household—is responsible for approximately 6.7 million premature deaths annually in low- and middle-income countries and 9 million globally.

Air Quality and the Indian Context

The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a critical indicator of pollution levels, and India faces severe challenges with high AQI scores in most metropolitan areas. IQAir data reveals that 14 of the 20 most polluted cities globally are in India. The major contributors to this crisis include vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, and biomass burning. Prolonged exposure to pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) leads to a wide range of health issues, from respiratory distress to life-threatening conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and premature deaths.

Despite initiatives like the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), which aims to reduce air pollution, comprehensive and sustained efforts are needed to protect public health and the environment.

Health Impacts of Air Pollution

The health effects of air pollution range from mild irritations, such as coughing and wheezing, to severe conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer.

Short-term exposure often results in respiratory distress, eye and nasal irritations, and allergies that may escalate into more severe conditions.

Long-term exposure is linked to chronic respiratory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and reduced life expectancy. Persistent contact with fine particulate matter, especially PM2.5, allows pollutants to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, exacerbating health risks.

In industrial and household settings, the use of polluting fuels like biomass, coal, and animal dung further compounds respiratory health issues, particularly for those with prolonged occupational exposure.

Vulnerability in Children

Children are especially susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution due to their developing respiratory systems and higher vulnerability to airborne toxins. Exposure to pollutants during childhood is associated with:

• Impaired lung growth and function
• Increased risks of asthma, bronchitis, and respiratory infections
• Developmental issues, including low birth weight and premature births
• Long-term studies linking childhood exposure to pollution with adult pulmonary health could provide critical insights for mitigating these risks. 

Strategies for Mitigating Air Pollution

Addressing the health and environmental impacts of air pollution requires multi-level strategies:

Structural Reforms: Enforcing stricter industrial and vehicular emission standards, promoting cleaner energy sources, and improving air quality monitoring systems.

Local Measures: Minimizing household exposure by adopting clean cooking fuels and reducing time spent outdoors during high-pollution periods.

Awareness and Education: Educating the public on the health risks of air pollution and methods to reduce exposure.

Conclusion

Air pollution poses an undeniable threat to pulmonary health, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like India. Effective mitigation requires a combination of national policies, localized efforts, and global collaboration to reduce pollutant levels and safeguard public health for future generations.