Air quality in major cities of the country continues to deteriorate, with New Delhi breathing the most polluted air and Mumbai and Bengaluru faring better with ‘moderate’ levels. Some areas in the national capital are inhaling ‘hazardous’ air; Anand Vihar with 353, and National Institute of Malaria Research in Dwarka a frightful 727.
Here’s what the numbers mean. The World Health Organisation identifies pollution levels are ranging from:
- 0 - 50: Good. Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
- 51-100: Satisfactory. Air quality is acceptable; may be a moderate health concern for sensitive people.
- 101-200: Moderate. Sensitive groups (with lung, heart diseases) may experience health issues.
- 201-300: Poor. Everyone may begin to experience health issues like respiratory problems.
- 301-400: Very Poor. Health warnings of emergency conditions. Entire population is likely to be affected.
- 401-500: Severe. Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health issues.
If you wish to check the air quality index of your city, click on this link: https://www.thequint.com/quintlab/widgets/air-quality-index/
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