“The dense haze was caused by cold weather conditions and high humidity. Coupled with bursting of firecrackers on Diwali, a hazy atmosphere prevailed,” scientists at Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology said.
Piecemeal approaches will only lead to the annual cycle of panic and shutdowns. With coordinated and sustained actions, we can address not only air pollution but also our urban climate and health goals together
When contacted, Dr Parag Khatavkar, consultant pulmonologist with KEM hospital, said the number of patients with upper respiratory tract infections has spiked. “Also, chronic poor air quality has exacerbated symptoms of patients with chronic respiratory ailments like asthma and COPD,” he added.
The light rain that lashed Delhi on Thursday night and Friday morning brought some respite from the toxic haze enveloping the national capital for the last week.