By || Ibn Qalam
Over the past three weeks, Srinagar has faced a
significant air quality crisis, with its Air Quality
Index (AQI) consistently above 100 from
November 20 to December 10, 2024. This places
the city in the “poor” category and ranks it 901st
among the 1,000 cities globally with the worst
pollution levels. Residents of Srinagar have
unknowingly inhaled the equivalent of 1.9
cigarettes daily, 13.3 weekly, and 51 monthly
due to toxic air.
Key Pollutants: Breaking Down the Data
The air pollution in Srinagar is primarily caused
by the following pollutants:
- PM2.5 (37 µg/m³) and PM10 (70 µg/m³):
These microscopic particles pose severe
health risks as they penetrate deep into
the respiratory system. - Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2, 8 ppb): A
harmful gas that worsens respiratory
ailments and reduces lung function. - Carbon Dioxide (CO2, 1,920 ppb): While
linked to climate change, its elevated
presence is an indicator of overall air
quality deterioration. - Sulfur Dioxide (SO2, 6 ppb): Causes
respiratory irritation and can trigger
asthma attacks. - Nitric Oxide (NO, 8 ppb) and Ozone (O3,
16 ppb): Harmful gases that contribute to
long-term health issues, particularly for
vulnerable groups.
The dominance of PM2.5 and PM10 signifies a
particulate-driven crisis, likely stemming from
vehicle emissions, industrial activity, and
construction dust.
Health Impacts: Breathing the Hidden
Dangers
The effects of poor air quality go far beyond
immediate discomfort. Long-term exposure to
these pollutants can lead to:
- Respiratory Illnesses: Increased rates of
asthma, bronchitis, and chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). - Heart Problems: Airborne particles
contribute to high blood pressure,
strokes, and heart attacks. - Weakened Immunity: Continuous
inhalation of pollutants lowers the body’s
ability to fight infections. - Pregnancy Risks: Expecting mothers
face higher risks of complications like
preterm births.
The cumulative impact of this polluted air has
made it a silent but potent health hazard for
Srinagar’s population.
How to Protect Yourself
While tackling pollution requires systemic
changes, individuals can take these steps to
reduce exposure:
- Use Air Purifiers Indoors: Ensure clean
air at home, especially during peak
pollution hours. - Wear N95 Masks: Protect yourself when
venturing outdoors, as these masks
effectively filter out harmful particles. - Install Car Air Filters: Reduce exposure
while traveling in vehicles
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid
strenuous outdoor activities, especially
during high AQI levels.
Being proactive in safeguarding personal health
is essential in such conditions.
Solutions for a Cleaner Srinagar
Addressing air pollution in Srinagar demands
collective and governmental efforts, including:
- Regulating Emissions: Implementing
stricter controls on vehicular and
industrial emissions is crucial. - Raising Awareness: Public campaigns
can educate citizens on reducing
pollution and protecting themselves. - Promoting Green Practices:
Afforestation, clean energy adoption, and
sustainable urban development can help
mitigate pollution in the long term. - Enhanced Monitoring: Installing
additional air quality stations for precise
data collection will aid decision-making.
These measures, coupled with community
participation, can pave the way for cleaner air.
Conclusion: Act Now, Breathe Better
Srinagar’s current AQI levels highlight the urgent
need for action. The numbers are not just
statistics; they represent a direct threat to the
health and well-being of the city’s residents.
While personal precautions are crucial, the
solution lies in policy reforms and collective
responsibility.
By taking immediate and sustained action,
Srinagar can reclaim its pristine air and ensure a
healthier future for its people