The air quality in Delhi has improved slightly with the Air Quality Index (AQI) moving from the ‘severe’ category to “very poor’. Delhi-NCR has been witnessing very hazardous air quality for several days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 379 on Thursday morning.
Several areas within Delhi, including Chandani Chowk, IGI Airport and Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, reported ‘very poor’ air quality with AQI readings ranging from 338 to 394. However, some areas like Anand Vihar and Wazirpur remained in the ‘severe’ category with AQI readings exceeding 400. While the national capital continues to battle poor air quality, the toxic pollutants are causing severe health implications.
Experts said that the poor AQI is causing dry eyes, irritations and allergies in the eyes of children and adults. According to a report in IANS, Dr Rohit Saxena, professor of ophthalmology, R P Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS New Delhi, said, “Pollution poses a serious threat to our eyes, particularly to the conjunctiva and the cornea, which is the first point of contact with harmful particles in the air. The fine particulate matter, allergens, and toxins in polluted environments can irritate the ocular surface and make it highly susceptible to infections.
” He added, “This is especially of concern in children and adults already experiencing dry eyes or allergic reactions, as these conditions worsen with exposure to poor air qua.
